December 7th Militaria and Aviation Auction
Lot 229:
Description
Abercrombie and Fitch flight helmet used by a Naval Aviator in England and Ireland. Includes a 1919 flight log and some paperwork. Rare matching chin protector is also present. This lot features an extraordinary and comprehensive archive of materials belonging to a single early American military aviator, Alexander F. Carson, who served in the US Marine Corps USMC during the World War I and immediate post-war era. This grouping of artifacts offers an unparalleled historical look into early US Marine aviation training and service.
The centerpiece of the archive is the Aviators Flight Log Book, clearly inscribed with the name A. F. Carson, rank of Commander and branch U.S.M.C. The log book contains handwritten entries detailing early flight training, solo flights, and aerial work performed in 1919 at bases such as Key West, FLA. The log book entries are highly detailed, noting duration of flight, landings, type of machine, and flight approval dates, signed by his supervisor.
The grouping includes a rare WWI or Interwar Period Leather Flying Helmet, likely a private purchase piece, complete with sheepskin/shearling lining and attached chin and face flaps. The helmet is stamped with handwritten provenance, including a visible Abercrombie & Fitch Co. NEW YORK manufacturers tag, suggesting a high-end private purchase. Other stenciling on the helmet includes names like Queens town I. C. and Fish Guard Wales, suggesting overseas service or posting locations, and further tying the helmet to the period of Carson s flight training.
The document archive includes several key historical records: a Completing School Report for Carson, Alexander F., dated February 1919, detailing his grades and scores in GUNNERY, including lecture and range scores. Additional handwritten notes, letters, and at least one original period photograph of two officers standing near an aircraft are included, providing visual confirmation of the era and uniform. This complete archive of personal gear and service records is a museum-grade documentation of early Marine Corps aviation.
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