Acme Thunderer and the World War

War Whistles History

This 1884 contract with the police gradually made Hudson the largest whistle manufacturer for British Empire Police and other general services. His whistles are still used by many forces worldwide. His design, was improved as the 'Acme Thunderer', the first ever pea whistle, which remains the most used whistle in the world; for train guards, dog handlers and police officers. During WW1, Hudson & Co produced the Hudson Officer’s trench Whistle. The Whistles normally had “J Hudson”, “Birmingham” and the Date of the Whistle stamped on the front. The patent number is sometimes stamped on the top of the whistle. A leather strap or lanyard would sometimes be connected to the whistle so that a soldier could attach it to his uniform.

About Joseph Hudson

The increasing cacophony of Victorian city streets and the noisy railway stations with their mechanical sounds and constant hissing of steam. He saw a need for a whistle and knew that it wasn’t just a case of making a whistle but of making a whistle that would stand out from the background noise and cut through the sounds of the environment in a way that guaranteed it would grab attention and command authority. He set about the task and launched himself on a learning curve that lead to his establishment as the most accomplished whistle maker of his time and since. As a result of his activities a whole whistle making industry sprung up in Birmingham. His company, ACME, led the way. His pioneering work and unique understanding and skillset created the designs that are still the basis of modern whistles.

In 1884 the ACME Thunderer, the first pea whistle, was launched. Offering total reliability, control and power to the referee, it is now the biggest selling whistle.

There is not a major league sport that has not been graced by this whistle.

Official Whistles

Officially approved world wide by over 200 sports bodies and referee associations covering over 50 sports and recreational activities.

All ACME Thunderer whistles are fitted with our legendary no stick Pea. They work even after complete immersion in water, and are unaffected by even the worst rainstorm. Unbeatable in strong winds and easily heard because of their fluctuating frequencies.