WWI, U.S. ARMY, BANDAGES, FLANNEL; ALL WOOL; ROLLER; RED; 3” X 5 YDS, NOS

Three rolls, red flannel, all wool bandages, two are still within the original packaging. These were made by M. Wenglinsky & Sons, Inc. (New York City).

M. Wenglinsky & Sons, Inc. (New York City) was a supplier to the U.S. Military Medical Department. Red Cross nursing manuals from the 1910s state that red flannel was preferred to white for bandaging rheumatic joints, presumably because the dye had some medical value. The color red was associated with healing according to the Encyclopedia of Folk Medicine. Red flannel bandages were used for wrapping injuries and for backaches, and were considered efficacious in preventing and treating infectious diseases such as whooping cough, scarlet fever, and smallpox. By the early twentieth century, the red flannel bandage was firmly entrenched in medical practice although the medicinal advantage of the color was no longer recognized.

Red flannel bandages were commonly used during conflicts for several reasons:

• Warmth: Flannel is a soft, warm fabric that helps to keep wounds warm. This warmth can promote blood flow and healing.   
• Absorbency: Flannel is absorbent, which can help to soak up blood and other fluids from wounds.   
  
• Softness: The soft texture of flannel is gentle on the skin, especially on injured areas.   
  
• Folk Medicine Beliefs: In many cultures, red was associated with healing and vitality. Red flannel bandages may have been used based on these folk medicine beliefs.   
  

While modern medicine has advanced significantly, red flannel bandages were a practical and effective option for wound care during wars, particularly when medical supplies were limited.

During wars and conflicts, there was a significant demand for medical supplies, including bandages. Given the company's location in New York City and its focus on bandage production, they were heavily  involved in fulfilling military contracts.