Personal Effects
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Personal Roll
Personal Items Roll

Doughboys would carry their personal items in a personal items roll like the one seen here. This one once belonged to a soldier name "Jos. W. Parkinson #26201". On the front flap he inscribed "AEF(American Expeditionary Force) 1917 to 1919". This kit roll has a tag inside stating that it is a "Nathan Army Navy Comfykit trade mark made in USA". Also shown are typical items a doughboy would have carried in his personal items roll .

Sewing Kits Sewing Kits
Sewing Kits

Many variations of World War I sewing kits exist. Several examples of sewing kits and their contents are pictured.

Shaving Kits
Shaving kits

Clockwise from top; Gillette "Khaki" set with extra blades and mirror; a kit manufactured by the Durham Duplex Razor Co. of New York. This kit is missing the razor, but retains the large shaving mirror. It is stamped with the original owner's unit, Co. A of the 319th Infantry, part of the 80th Division; Every Ready set with empty blade box, missing the shaving mirror; and a Gillette set with 13 extra blades and shaving mirror. Shaving was a vital part of personal hygiene in the trenches. Several days worth of stubble would prevent the soldier's gas mask from creating a proper seal against his face. Thus shaving was an important factor to prevent becoming a gas casualty.

Soap Dishes and Pine Tar Soap
Soap dishes

The dish on the right contains a brand new bar of "Pine Tar Grand Pa's Wonder Soap" manufactured by the Grandpa Soap Company of Cincinnati, Ohio.

Tetley Tea Bags
When I purchased the condiment can, I found four Tetley Tea bags inside.

Infantry Manual Infantry Manual Infantry Manual
Manual for Noncommissioned Officers and privates of Infantry of the Army Of The United States 1917

This pocket sized hardbound book has tons of useful information for the common soldier desrcibing uniform care, how to assemble the M1910 haversack and pack carrier, how to cook rations, maintain one's weapon, bayonet drill, first aid, and much more. This publication is the December 31, 1917 updated version. Several variations of the book exist such as different updates and cover color.

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