Historical information

Mess tins were used to prepare or heat food, but thay were also used as a container from which to eat or drink. The tins are lightweight and sturdy but they became hot very quickly when heated.

Significance

Used by Australian military servicemen during WW1

Physical description

Two piece "D" shaped silver coloured metal mess tin and lid. Used by Australian military servicemen during WW1, it is believed to be based on a British design. Made of tin plated steel, this mess tin has a wire rod carrying handle and rectangular metal wire clips for a shoulder strap, attached to the top section of the mess tin by metal rivets and straps. There is a metal wire rod folding handle mounted on the inside of the removable lid section. The mess tin has a folded seam on the bottom edge and along the left hand side. A wire rod is mounted around the top section of the mess tin as a base for the removable lid. The lid has a folded metal seam on the top edge and along the left hand side. The bottom edge of the lid is folded around a metal wire rod.

Inscriptions & markings

A. SIMPSON & SON LTD
1916
ADELAIDE