Historical information

By 1941, the threat of Japanese invasion caused restrictions to daily life. Blackouts became the norm. To prevent identification from enemy planes all lights had to be turned down, including car headlights that had to be covered to minimize light exposure.
In Australia more relaxed regulations led to the Australian air raid precautions being dubbed the “brownout”. These shields limited the amount of light emitted by a vehicle. To drive at night without them was an offence; however, the increase in road accidents led to the removal of headlight masks everywhere in Australia south of Rockhampton from 15 February 1943.

Significance

These shields, though not rare, evoke a period of restrictions, fear, rationing and confinement.

Physical description

Pair of handmade car light blackout shields. Black round metal with scoop at front as well as small glass partition.