From gathering moss to a multi-million dollar industry, we’re about to bring you the #WW1 story you never knew you always needed. It’s a tale of sacrifice, service … and sanitary napkins.
#philanthropy #AmericanGiving #GivingTuesday #BecauseOfHerStory #HistMed
#philanthropy #AmericanGiving #GivingTuesday #BecauseOfHerStory #HistMed
Open wounds and blood loss can be some of the most dangerous issues on the battlefield.
First aid chests and U.S. Hospital Corps belts would be sure to contain sterile dressings to staunch bleeding.
First aid chests and U.S. Hospital Corps belts would be sure to contain sterile dressings to staunch bleeding.
During #WW1, sphagnum moss was used to create bandages and dressings like this one. While moss may seem like a weird fit, it was super absorbent, with antiseptic properties, and grew plentifully in America.
The American Red Cross organized civilians—mostly women—on the home front to make the sphagnum moss dressings. Because who doesn’t love a moss-bandage-making party?
#GivingTuesday #philanthropy #AmericanGiving #BecauseOfHerStory
#GivingTuesday #philanthropy #AmericanGiving #BecauseOfHerStory
After the war, the know-how and systems used to produce these super absorbent dressings were re-purposed to create sanitary napkins for women. A Red Cross nurse even appeared on the packaging to drive home the patriotic and sanitary connections.
These Sfag-na-kins—that’s their actual name—came in packages like this one with two safety pins, because self-adhesion was still a long way off.
