Original WWI U.S. Army Chemical Warfare Service KLAXON - 10 Hand Cranked Gas Alarm with Padded Base

Original item: Only One Available. Gas Warfare, now banned by International Treaty, was first introduced in WWI on the Western Front, and the results were devastating. Soon everyone was issued with a gas mask and was required to carry one at all times. Various types of "gas alarms", from simple wooden rattles to mechanical sirens were employed to help warn the soldiers that it was time to put the mask on.

This is a great example of a U.S. WWI KLAXON brand gas alarm, which produces a very loud and jarring grating noise when turned. Often called a "cow scarer", as similar devices were used on early cars to get animals to move out of the way. This example is complete with its original stand, which has been padded at the bottom for display purposes. This is the best example we have offered.

The alarm retains its original finish, and still has a fully intact data plate, which even retains the red paint on the logos. It reads:

KLAXON - 10
TRADE MARK REGISTERED
PAT'D MAR.31,1908 - MAY 25,1909-MAY 3,1910
CHEMICAL WARFARE SERVICE
U.S. ARMY
KLAXON
Company, Newark, N.J.

It also is marked with serial number G10836 on the lower left corner. Overall the Klaxon measures 11 1/2" long x 6" x 7".

Still in great working condition after more than 100 years, with just some deformation to the "horn" portion. Ready to display or frighten your cows!