Original Item: Only One Available. Fantastic pattern 1872 Indian Wars rigid shell kepi. Characteristics that define this version are sturdier construction and a lather banding around the crown. This fine example dates from the end of the 19th century and belonged to a member of the 3rd Infantry, M Company as designated by the 3/M between two crossed rifles indicating 3rd Infantry regiment, company M. Cap is in good condition for being well over a century old. Blue felt is solid with typical signs of age and use. Both black leather bands are present and the brass infantry chin strap buttons are original and in lovely condition with just the right amount of tarnish. Visor is in good shape but stitching is separated from the hat on one side, and while the original leather headband is intact, there is a separation towards the front. Size is approximately a US 6 3/4 (54cm). Interior crown has the original paper maker label which reads:

From
W. Stokes Kirk
Dealer In
Government Goods
General Merchandise, & C.
Philadelphia

After the Civil War, the 3rd Infantry served in Kansas, Colorado and the Indian Territory (later the state of Oklahoma) from 1866 to 1874. It then served in Louisiana and Mississippi from 1874 to 1877 and Montana, Minnesota and South Dakota from 1877 to 1898.

During the Spanish–American War, the regiment served in Cuba from 14 June – 25 August 1898, where it participated in the Santiago Campaign and fought at the Battle of San Juan Hill.

After returning from Cuba, the 3rd Infantry was stationed at Fort Snelling in Minnesota. On 5 October 1898, a force of about 80 men—including soldiers of the 3rd Infantry, U.S. Marshals and Indian Police—fought in the Battle of Sugar Point against 17 members of the local Pillager Band of Chippewa Indians near the Leech Lake Reservation. The United States forces lost 6 soldiers and one Indian Police officer killed and another 14 wounded. There were no casualties among the Chippewa. Hospital Steward (later Major) Oscar Burkard received the Medal of Honor for rescuing casualties during the battle. The Battle of Sugar Point was the last battle fought between the United States Army and Native Americans.

The 3rd Infantry also served in the Philippines during the Philippine Insurrection from 3 February 1899, to 15 April 1902. It then returned to the United States where it was stationed in Kentucky, Ohio and Illinois. It was then sent to Alaska where it served from 1 July 1904, to 6 August 1906, when it was sent to Washington state until it was sent back to the Philippines about 1909.

As of August 1914 the Regiment's headquarters, along with the 2nd and 3rd Battalions, were located at Madison Barracks, New York. The 1st Battalion was located at Fort Ontario, New York.