Objects Database

Bergans Ruc Sac ( Rucksack) Model 86

Accession Number

1095.2013.1

Object Name

Bergans Ruc Sac ( Rucksack) Model 86

Created

12/11/2013

Creator

Hermione Cooper

Accession Date

12/11/2013

Brief Description

A frame canvas rucksack with large front pocket and drawstring with plastic toggle at top. Small brass pulley wheel on back.

Materials

canvas, leather, metal, cotton, plastic

Dimensions

35(l) x 32(w) x 13(h) cms

Number Of Objects

1

Colour

khaki

Maker

Bergans

Object Production Place

Norway

Provenance

Ole. F Bergan was a Norwegian hunter and fisherman who invented one of the first 'A' frame rucksacks back in 1908. So successful was his product that Bergans became the generic term for all rucksacks for another 50 years, particularly in the UK, where there were a multitide of 'pretenders'; but the Bergans reigned supreme.
We think the one we have here in the collection could date back to the 1930's. It has all the hallmarks of a bespoke rucksack including the patented Bergan's 'pulley' which was designed to centralise the load and stop the sack being
lop-sided.
Thomas Black & Sons of Greenock were the sole importers of Bergan's rucksacks in Scotland back in the 1930's and interestingly the advert opposite shows genuine Bergans and a cheaper Bergan type rucksack.
We are not too sure where this one came from as it's not uncommon for a box of gear to be left at our door - thanks anyway.

Acquisition Date

12/11/2013

Condition Check Date

12/11/2013

Rules

Spectrum : UK Museum documentation standard, V.3.1 2007

Modified

12/11/2013

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