It Is What It Is

This innovative nose guard patented in 1891 by S. J. Cumnock of Lowell, Mass., was intended to protect the nose, forehead and mouth of a person playing football or a similar sport. The mask was made of rubber with an interior flange, which was clasped between the teeth. The band encircled the head beneath a soft helmet. Used by the first CU football teams, the nose guards were featured on early Boulder postcards of team members.

Memorabilia wanted. Please contact the CU Heritage Center if you would like to donate CU-related items. For more information go to www.cuheritage.org or call 303-492-6329.