Cut throat razor : Sergeant S Bryant-Smith, 2/29 Battalion Accession Number: REL25220

Description

Folding cut throat type razor with black bakelite handle. Razor is stored in a handmade webbing pouch with button closure, and a remnant cardboard sleeve. Black bakelite handle is stamped in gold on one side only with 'BENGALL'. Blade is stamped on the same side only with 'MADE EXPRESSLY FOR / PIKE BROTHERS, LTD. / QUEENSLAND'. On the ricasso of the same side is engraved a floral motif and 'BENGALL'. The other side of the ricasso is stamped with the maker's name.

Contextual Description

Bought by S Bryant-Smith from an Afghan Hawker in 1935 at a property called Tarleton Downs, 24 miles from Lake Nash on the Queensland side of the Northern Territory border fence. It cost twelve shillings, which was expensive at the time. He used it daily and took it to war with him, serving in 2/29 Battalion as QX20748 Sergeant Bryant-Smith. After the Eighth Division were captured when Singapore fell, the donor was interned in Changi Prisoner of War Camp complex. Australian prisoners of war made a point of shaving regularly, at least twice a week. Good razors were not readily available so he lent the razor to QX20520 Private A T W Trott, of 2/29 Battalion, who used it continually for three and a half years to shave the sick who were in Changi Hospital. Trott made the webbing cover in which the razor is now stored, when the cardboard cover wore out. The donor claims that during the 1930s Bengall razors had the reputation for being made of very high quality steel. At Changi many other razors wore out due to the frequent use and their poor quality, and some were even made from car springs. The Bengall razor was the only one fit for using when delicate shaving was required, and its quality and worth was greatly appreciated.