G.A.R. Slouch Hat / SOLD

G.A.R. Slouch Hat - Inventory Number:  VET 295 / 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 reading “Meng & Shafer of Rochester NY.” And is dated 1878 on the patented “improved” sweatband. The sweatband is in place and presents in excellent condition.  The exterior has good color, no holes, and no stains. The grosgrain hatband is in place and the original, netted gold G.A.R. hat cord with acorn finials which is affixed to the hat with period thread.  The front emblem ios a unique and well executed embroidered bullion badge with letters G.A.R. executed in silver bullion.  A wonderful example of a Civil War Union veterans’ hat.

The G.A.R. was a powerful organization with significant political influence, holding their first meeting in 1866 and reached 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.  

Inventory Number:  VET 295 / SOLD