Item Description
Original Item: One Only. Much like our European cousins in the 1880s, the U.S. Army started to adopt spiked pith helmets, often in white, with all brass mounts and occasionally plumes. These saw active service in the Spanish American War of 1898 especially in the tropical climate in Cuba. While often referred to as "pith helmets" in the broad sense, it was made from cork, like many European variants, such as the Wolseley pattern used by the British.
This helmet dates to the 1880s, and it really is quite striking. This is not the type of helmet that was worn in the field, but instead one intended for use with the "dress" uniform for ceremonial occasions. It is beautifully made from cork covered with brown fabric, with a complete makers label inside:
RIDABOCK & CO
BAKER & McKENNEY
141 GRAND ST. NEW YORK
This company started off as J.H. McKENNEY & CO. then later became Baker & McKenney, and then Ridabock Co., so this is definitely a later example.
The Helmet plate displays the Great Seal of the United States, with the American Eagle with a banner in its beak stating: E PLURIBUS UNUM. In the center of the eagle is a maltese cross with DEFENDAM N.G.S.N.Y with the regimental number 22 cut out in the center. From the looks of the front plate, it is the original plate to the helmet and was not switched like ones we have seen in the past. The crossed rifle infantry side buttons are still present. There is an inspection stamp reading INSPECTED 1900 N.G.N.Y.
Very nice, great condition for age with loads of patina, ready to display!
- This product is available for international shipping.
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