Bertie Rowell motorcycle helmet
Date made: 1907-1939
Description: Light green domed leather helmet with peak made to measure for Bertie Rowell. The peak is slightly offset as Rowell's riding position would have meant that a central peak would have given him double vision. On the reverse are lightly stencilled the letters 'M G P'. This is possibly an early form of scrutineering mark from the Manx Grand Prix and has been seen on other helmets of this era. The helmet has a label inside indicating that it was retailed by Colgate of Castle Street, Douglas, one of the main suppliers of professional motorcycle riding gear in the 1930s. Stanley Woods was among his customers.
The 1937 Manx Grand Prix was described as 'Rowell's year' for his achievement in leading all classes in practice. He came seventh in the Junior and third in the Senior MGP races that year. He subsequently became a Travelling Marshal for the Isle of Man Tourist Trophy (TT) races.
Wesley Albert 'Bertie' Rowell born 1906 and died 1974.
Measurements: overall: 15 cm x 19 cm x 28 cm
Materials: cotton, leather, metal: copper alloy, paint: oil, wood: composite, cork, wool
Object name: helmet
Collection: Costume & Textiles Collection
ID Number: 2006-0047/1
Subject tags : #TT&MOTORSPORT