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 Kentish Guards, as identified by the insignia on the front.

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 “bugle” chin strap buttons are original and in lovely condition with just the right amount of tarnish. Visor is in good shape but the stitching is separated from the hat in the middle, and while the original leather headband is intact, there is a separation towards the back. Size is approximately a US 6 3/4 (54cm).

A lovely example ready for further research and display.

The Kentish Guards were formed in the Colony of Rhode Island in 1774, right on the cusp of the Revolutionary War. The original task of the Kentish Guards was to protect the town of East Greenwich, and the Colony of Rhode Island chartered them on October 29, 1774.

The Kentish Guards distinguished themselves several times in the American Revolutionary War, including the 1775 Siege of Boston. One of the original officers of the Kentish Guards was Nathanael Greene, who would later become one of the most famous military leaders of the Revolutionary War.

The Kentish Guards have also been militarily active after the end of the Revolutionary War. They served guard duty at the old Fort Adams in Newport during the War of 1812, and quelled a riot in Pawtucket during the Dorr Rebellion in 1842. During the American Civil War, the Kentish Guards enlisted as Company “H” of the 2nd Rhode Island Volunteers and saw extensive service in the Peninsular Campaign in Virginia. With the Amery of the Potomac, the Guards fought in 14 of the major battles of the Civil War, including the First Battle of Bull Run and the Battle of the Wilderness. The Kentish Guards also recruited and supplied the officers for Company “H” 7th Rhode Island Volunteers, which saw service with the Army of the Potomac and the Army of the Ohio.