Exceptional "Wide-Awake" Lincolnite Kepi ca. 1860 / SOLD

Exceptional "Wide-Awake" Lincolnite Kepi ca. 1860 - Inventory Number: UNI 169 / SOLD

Worn by pro-Lincoln political supporters associated with the "Know Nothings", by 1860, the Wide Awakes backed the new Republican Party and its candidate, Abraham Lincoln. There were hundreds of chapters of the club throughout the nation and they were considered a quasi-military organization with officers, uniforms, torches, banners, and some drill expertise.

They functioned as a political police force, escorting campaign speakers and maintaining order at large political gatherings. They assembled at polls to protect voters and marched in parades in support their party.

On October 3, 1860, 10,000 Wide Awakes marched in Chicago in a procession three miles long. Harpers Weekly illustrated the event in the October 13, 1860 issue of the magazine. The oilcloth paint is still vibrant. No tears, repairs, some minor flaking.  The name "A. B. Bennett" is written inside with pencil. A remarkable American Civil War and US Political artifact.

Inventory Number: UNI 169 / SOLD