Standard U.S. Army regulation forage cap adopted by the Quartermaster Department in late 1858. The cap in this new form was to replace the earlier pattern 1839 “Wheel Cap” used in the field by the U.S. Army as well as State Volunteer units during the Mexican war period and well into the 1850’s. With the redevelopment of American military uniforms, weapons and equipment in the 1850’s this cap became the norm for the field service throughout the Civil War and was not replaced with a new pattern until 1872.

Our example shown here corresponds to the first pattern (What is referred to by today’s nomenclature as the Type 1 pattern) having the slightly sloped crescent visor measuring 2” and smaller crown disk of 5” diameter. The front cap rise measurement of 4 ½” and rear rise of 6.”

These forage caps were produced for the Government by various contractors from 1861-1865 and numbered in the millions over that period. So vast was the surplus that many years after the War they were still being issued until supplies became exhausted.  The remainder was also sold off to military surplus dealers such as Bannerman’s in New York and H.K White in Philadelphia.

This specimen was manufactured by the contactor of L J & I P (Lewis J. and Isaac Phillips) of New York. Records indicate that they had numerous contracts from 1861-65 and was one of the larger suppliers.

The overall condition is excellent considering its age. The visor is still sewn tight to the body, the chin strap is complete terminating with the two original Eagle side buttons. Outer wool body is 99% free of moth holes (only a very, very small hole is located on the left side panel toward the rear.) The internal sweatband is complete with signs of wear and flaking, but is still supple. The headliner is composed of a Chocolate colored twilled polished cotton and is complete as well.  Also the contractors label is entirely intact reading: SIZE No. 2, 6 7/8 U.S. ARMY L J & IP.

A nice complete specimen.

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