Both bi-corns date from the 1880’s or 90’s and come in their own japanned tin carriers.

The first of the two has a beaver skin body and crown that shows some light wear. Around the base of the crown is a gold bullion cord with large acorns and tassels that protrude from the creases formed by the turned up brim on both sides of the crown. These show two small spots of tarnish but nothing major.

The edges of the brim are edged with a black cloth tape that has a stippled decoration with scrolls along each edge.

The left side of the bi-corn has a double length of gold braid pointed at the bottom over a black cloth cockade. The braid is anchored by a coat sized Navy button.

Interior lacks a sweatband but does have a very nice black polished cotton lining in the crown. It is marked a size 7. On the top of the crown the lining has a gold ink spread-winged eagle with “SHANNON, MILLER & CRANE, NEW-YORK.”

Bicorn comes in a japanned tin case with a lid that has separated. Attached to the lid is an old paper label that has come loose. The label has period ink writing that reads “DR. J. W. BAKER USS PALOS” under it in modern pencil is “SURGEON ON BOARD.”

Also with this bi-corn is a 22.00 x 22.00 inch piece of red, white and blue cotton bunting with numerous white and blue stars. Edges are rough cut showing this is only a part of something bigger.

The second bi-corn comes in its own japanned tin case which is in good condition. It is of similar style and construction as the one described above but this one has a nicer, cleaner look. The acorn and tassels are a little fancier in production and the beaver skin is excellent. The black edging tape is wider than on the previous hat and more ornate. The gold braid, cockade and Navy button are brighter.

Interior has a complete light brown or tan sweatband with a worked in drawstring and a wine colored silk lining in the crown stamped with the maker’s name in gold. Stamping is difficult to read. Too much ink was applied to the stamp so though it is strong the lettering is not clear.

Research by a former owner shows that John W. Baker served as a Boatswain in the Navy during the Civil War and was later commissioned. He was a native of Aurora Indiana and was officially commissioned as a surgeon on January 21, 1897. While in the Navy, Baker served at the Boston Naval Hospital, the U.S. Naval Hospital, Chelsea, MA, the U.S. Naval Hospital, Yokohama, Japan, and in various recruiting stations. He also served on several warships, including the USS WABASH, USS MONOCACY, USS DETROIT, USS JUNIATA, USS KEARSAGE, USS MICHIGAN, USS MONITOR NANTUCKET and the USS PALOS. He received a Victory Medal and Button for his service in WW I, as well as a Spanish Campaign Medal for his service in the Spanish-American War.   [ad]

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