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 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 is beautifully made from cork covered with white fabric for summer use. There is an 1899 William Horstmann manufacturer label present and a size 7 label sticker.

William H. Horstmann & Co. (later Horstmann Brothers and Company) was a manufacturer and retailer of civilian and military equipment, including military uniforms, insignias, and flags. The company was established in 1815 by William H. Horstmann (1785-1850), a native of Cassel, Germany. He learned the trade of silk-weaving in France, and upon emigrating to the United States, established himself in Philadelphia as a manufacturer of fringe, laces, and trimmings of various kinds.

In 1828, the company began the manufacture of military trimmings. The company consisted of two branches: one dealt in civilian clothing and goods, and the other in military uniforms and equipment. The company executed large government contracts for the War and Navy Departments.

After his sons, William H. Horstmann (1819-1872) and Sigmund H. Horstmann (1821-1870) joined the firm, they established another branch of the business in New York, New York in 1831. Factories were built, first at the corner of Germantown road and Columbia avenue, and later on Fifth street and Cherry street, both in Philadelphia.

The firm was known by a variety of names: William H. Horstmann & Sons (1843-1893, Philadelphia), Horstmann Brothers & Company (1850-1852, New York; 1859-1893, Philadelphia), Horstmann Brothers & Allien (1852-1877, New York), Horstmann Sons & Drucker (1845-1849, New York), and the William H. Horstmann Co. (1893-1940, Philadelphia).

The Helmet plate displays the Great Seal of the United States, with the American Eagle with a banner in its beak stating: E PLURIBUS UNUM.

The "crossed rifles" behind the shield indicate that it is for an infantry unit, and the number 17 in the center of the "shield" is for the 17th Infantry Regiment. From the looks of the front plate, it is the original plate to the helmet and was not switched like ones we have seen in the past.

The overall condition of the helmet is fantastic given its age. There is minor damage like denting in the material and cracking present as well as material loss on the green brims.

Very nice, great condition for age, ready to display.