The WW1 British Royal Navy (RN) Housewife With Contents is an original personal sewing kit issued to Royal Navy personnel during the First World War. Commonly referred to as a “housewife” or “hussif,” this kit contains essential items needed for uniform repair and general maintenance while at sea or on active service. Typical contents include needles, thread cards in various colors, a thimble, buttons, safety pins, and patches of fabric, all stowed within a compact, roll-up canvas or cotton case. These kits reflect the self-sufficiency expected of naval ratings and officers during wartime, enabling minor repairs to uniforms and equipment. The British RN housewife was designed for portability, durability, and ease of use. Such items provide insight into daily naval life and personal kit carried by servicemen during the conflict. This example is in period condition and includes representative contents, as used by personnel of the era.
