The First Design for a Mass-Produced Hard Hat

For industrialists in the early 20th century, worker safety was not a priority, and safety gear was not an industry. However, that would be changed by Edward W. Bullard, a lieutenant in the U.S. Cavalry during World War I. While fighting in France, Bullard became familiar with the Brodie helmet, the "soup bowl" helmet developed by the Brits, and rebranded the M1917 helmet by the Yanks. Bullard realized it would have applications for civilians back home. Image: Missouri Historical Society,...