G.A.R. Slouch Hat / SOLD

G.A.R. Slouch Hat - Inventory Number: VET 294 / SOLD

The largest of the Civil War veterans’ organizations, the Grand Army of the Republic had its own uniform regulations, specifications for swords and equipment, badges, etc. Headgear usually took the form of a natty version of the Civil War forage cap, or the more comfortable and practical slouch hat. These were made and marketed by many firms. This one bears a trademark on its sweatband with an eagle and “3XXX Beaver”.  The sweatband is in perfect condition showing very little use.  The body has good color, no holes, and no stains. The grosgrain hat band is in place and the original G.A.R. insignia is present on the front.

The G.A.R. was a powerful organization with significant political influence, holding their first meeting in 1866 and reaching a peak in membership, over 400,000, in 1890. Their last national meeting was in 1949 and the organization was officially dissolved with the death of its last member in 1956. This is a nice example of their uniform headgear.

 Inventory Number: VET 294 / SOLD