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 a large number of firms. This one bears a trademark on its sweatband reading “Genuine Velour” and “Sarnoff-Irving, Hat Store, New York.” The sweatband is in place and the veteran’s initials (J.W.S.) are punched into the lining. The exterior material has good color, no holes, or stains. The hatband is in place and the original, twisted black and gold G.A.R. hat cord with acorn finials is in good condition with good color. The brass wreath with “G.A.R.” in the center is pinned to the front. An older, typed card is found tucked inside the sweatband. It reads, “Pvt. John W. Scott / 3^rd New York Cav. Regt. Broome Co. Binghamton  N.Y.  Marvin Watrous GAR Post 30.  W/ Flag Carrier.”

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.

This is a great example of their uniform headgear and a telling memento of a vanished generation.  [jet][ph:L]

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

THIS ITEM, AS WITH ALL OTHER ITEMS AVAILABLE ON OUR WEB SITE,

MAY BE PURCHASED THROUGH OUR LAYAWAY PROGRAM.

CLICK HERE FOR OUR POLICIES AND TERMS.

THANK YOU!