Name/Title
1915-1916 Canadian Army officer's General List gor'blimey capEntry/Object ID
2022.7.26Description
1915-1916 Canadian Army officer's General List gor'blimey cap. The gor'blimey cap is made of khaki wool material. The top of the cap is flattened and has a front-pointed visor. Attached to the cap is an adjustable leather chin strap secured by two service buttons. In the center of the cap is a gold-plated maple leaf cap badge; attached is a King's crown in the center of the cap badge. The interior is stamped with "M." It also appears stitched in a circular pattern.Context
Canadian and British war manufacturers produced the gor'blimey cap during the war. While Allied soldiers wore the cap during parade, it was not meant for field service. During the colder months, it provided no warmth to troops, especially around the ears. As a result, a winterized version of the gor'blimey cap was manufactured and given to Canadian and British troops. When the Mark 1 Steele helmet was introduced to Allied troops between 1915-1916, the winter cap became outdated. By 1916, all Canadian and British soldiers wore the Mark 1 helmet on active duty. The gor'blimey cap was only worn behind the front lines. The term "Gor Blimey" was a nickname created by the rank and file, meaning "God Blind Me." Finally, the cap offered no vital head protection during active combat.
