Original U.S. M1881 Army Artillery Dress Plumed size 6 7/8 Pith Helmet by Wm H. Horstmann
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Original Item: One Only. Much like our European cousins in the 1880s, the U.S. Army started to adopted spiked helmets, sometimes 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.
This helmet is in black, 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 out any hooks for chin scales, indicating that it is for an enlisted soldier. The Maker's name is marked inside under the liner leather sweatband :-
Wm. H. HORSTMANN
PHILADELPHIA
CONTRACT FEB. ????
The date looks like it might begin with 19, so this would be a very early 20th century helmet. This information is also stamped into the spike fitting on the top of the helmet.
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. Helmet plate is in excellent condition, with all three attachment hooks present. 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 liner is also in great shape, with a lovely brown color, and there is a small 6 7/8 size label at the back of the helmet.
Very nice, great condition for age, ready to display.
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