September 2017
c. 1922 Winchester No. 3237
Beehive Flattop Head Harness
Questions or comments? Please email me at:
The Winchester No. 3237 was nearly identical in design to the Draper & Maynard No. 1H, which was produced between 1922 and 1926. D&M also offered a beehive model with its entire exterior treated with an applied waterproofing agent, the No. 2H. In 1922, the No. 1H and No. 2H, retailed for $2.25 and $3.00 respectively, compared to $9.00 for D&M's top end helmet model, the No. 12H.
Our September 2017 Artifact of the Month is is an example of an uncommon head harness style, the beehive flattop. Acquired by Steve Hill of Hammer Sports Relics, the circa 1922-1926 Winchester No. 3237 was constructed out of canvas and featured an applied, water-resistant, oil-based treatment on the top of the helmet and leather reinforcing pads at each ear hole. The beehive flattop was an entry level helmet similar in design to the Harvard flattop, with its ear protectors incorporated into the helmet body. However, the beehive utilized lower cost materials, such as oil-treated canvas, instead of leather and had a quilted body which tapered towards the crown, giving the helmet its characteristic, rounded, beehive shape.
D&M No. 1H & 2H, 1922 D&M Fall & Winter Catalog
The Winchester Repeating Arms Company was founded in 1855 by Oliver F. Winchester of Boston, Massachusetts. Winchester introduced the world's first successful repeating rifle in 1866, and became known as the world's leader in the manufacture of arms and ammunition. After World War I, Winchester began manufacturing tools, hardware and sporting goods. In 1922, Winchester merged with Simmons Hardware Company, forming the Winchester-Simmons Company. The merger dissolved in 1929, and Winchester declared bankruptcy in 1931.
The Winchester Repeating Arms Company
