Item Description
Original Item: One Only. Much like our European cousins in the 1880s, the U.S. Army started to adopted 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 beautifully made from cork covered with black fabric, with a partial makers label inside under the spike fixture. From research, we have found only one company that it could be made by:-
J.H. McK[ENNEY & C]O.
141 GRAND ST. N.Y.
This company later became Baker & McKenney, and then Ridabock Co., so this is definitely a very early example. On the interior it is also size marked 7 with a small label on the back, and is marked with a stenciled number 38, as well as with the name F.B. WEAVER. There are a few other markings we cannot make out, but this is definitely a helmet with a great history, and some wonderful research potential!
The Helmet plate displays the Great Seal of the United States, with the American Eagle with a banner in it's beak stating: E PLURIBUS UNUM. The "crossed swords" below the shield indicate that it is a for a cavalry unit, and the number 1 in the center of the "shield" is for the 1st Cavalry Regiment. From the looks of the front plate, it is not the first plate on this helmet, which is why it doesn't match the chin scale hangers.
The brass ring chin scales are unfortunately completely missing, and the interior liner is somewhat worn, with a few small tears. However it still retains the infantry "crossed rifles" chin scale hangers on the sides, as well as the "Shield" hanger on the rear.
Very nice, great condition for age with loads of patina, ready to display!
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