Original U.S. Indian Wars 1881 Model 1st Artillery Regiment Dress Helmet by Horstmann with Plume & Cords - Dated 1899 - Size 7
In stock
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Original Item: One Only Available. 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 1899, 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. This example was made from cork covered with brown fabric, and retains a great red plume and red cords, with a maker’s contract stamp under the sweatband:
Wm. H. HORSTMANN
Contract: March 4th, 1899
This dates the helmet to 1899 and was contracted by William H. Horstmann of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. There is a size sticker on the interior, for 7.
The front plate displays the Great Seal of the United States, with the American Eagle with a banner in its beak stating: E PLURIBUS UNUM. There is a 1 device attached to the shield, denoting the 1st Artillery Regiment. The helmet plate is in excellent condition, with all three attachment hooks present, though there are no leather wedges holding them in place. The side cockades over the ears are of crossed cannons for an artillery soldier. The top has a lovely white plume, which would indicate which unit the soldier was a member of. The sweatband is also in great shape, with a nice brown color.
An outstanding example, just with some fraying to the cords. Ready for display.
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