Steel Wire and Leather Catcher’s Masks by Wilson C.1940

ABOUT

An original vintage catcher’s mask by Wilson. The main body is carbon steel with thick, tan leather padding. The padding is held onto the body of the mask by brown leather straps and rawhide laced through grommets. The Wilson label is affixed to the fabric strap. The piece has retained most of its original finish and is in good condition with appropriate patina for its age.

CREATOR Wilson Sporting Goods Co.
DATE OF MANUFACTURE c.1940.
MATERIALS AND TECHNIQUES Carbon Steel, Leather, Rawhide, Fabric.
CONDITION Good. Wear consistent with age and use.
DIMENSIONS H 11 in. W 8 in. D 5 in.

HISTORY

Wilson Sporting Goods Co. This Chicago-based manufacturer of athletic gear began in 1913 as Ashland Manufacturing, which was as a subsidiary of the Wilson& Co. meat company. By the middle of the 20th century, Wilson had become the leading sporting goods manufacturer in the United State