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 the Maker's name inside under the spike fixture :-
RIDABOCK & CO.
FORMERLY
BAKER & McKENNEY
NEW YORK.
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. In the center of the "shield" is the number 8, for 8th Infantry, or possibly the 8th Company.
The brass ring chin scales are unfortunately completely missing, and the interior liner is somewhat worn, with a few small tears. The overall shape is a little crushed, as it looks to have gotten wet at some point, which caused the top to become a bit warped. There is also moth damage to the felt covering, as shown.
Very nice, great condition for age, ready to display.
- This product is available for international shipping.
- Eligible for all payments - Visa, Mastercard, Discover, AMEX, Paypal & Sezzle
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