Nightstick
Object number2011.127.249
Manufacturer
Federal Laboratories, Inc.
Date1925
OriginPittsburgh, PA
MediumMetal; brass; wood; leather
Credit LineGift of Pittsburgh Police Historical Association
DescriptionBilly club tear gas spray emitter. Hollow, metal billy club or nightstick with dark brown wooden veneer. Silver metal grip with a button on the side and a leather strap attached. Device unscrews at center.Dimensions1.5 x 9.25 x 4.25 in. (3.8 x 23.5 x 10.8 cm)MarksStamped on grip " PAT. SEPT. 15, 1925 / DEC. 15, 1925 / DEC. 29, 1925 / 5895".
On base of grip is stamped: "FEDERAL LABORATORIES, INC. / U.S.A. PITTSBURGH, PA."
Historical NotesThis nightstick was designed to be filled with removable gas cartridges and used in riot situations. The cartridges were designed by Ruben B. Lawrence of Bellevue. Part of the Pittsburgh Police Historical Association collection.Label TextMany American cities witnessed more crime in the early 1920s, including Pittsburgh. The violence outraged the public and prompted cries for action. Companies such as Pittsburgh’s Federal Laboratories, Inc., utilized technology drawn from the battlefield to create new crime prevention tools, such as “gas billies,” billy clubs that shot tear gas when fired.
Related institution
Pittsburgh Bureau of Police
Related person
Ruben B. Lawrence
On View
Not on view
Federal Laboratories, Inc.
C. and E. Marshall Company
