This is a desirable enlisted man's regulation US Army Model 1880 cork helmet designed for tropical conditions in the United States or Abroad. The shell of the "Pith Helmet" or "Gordon Helmet" is composed of shellacked laminated cork covered in a "bleached cotton drilling". The top of the helmet has a large button that can be adjusted over a brass ventilator. The interior has green cloth lining the circumference of the visor and a leather sweat band "floating" on 10 cork studs that is 2 inches high. The chin strap of white enameled leather is missing. Stamped inside the leather sweat band is " WM. H. HORSTMANN" over "PHILADELPHIA" over "JUNE 1896". In the field these were worn without any badge or regimental designation like the British. The big error in the blockbuster 1964 movie Zulu was portraying the men of the 24th foot, in combat, wearing badges on their service pith helmets.

This US Model 1880 Summer Helmet has a great look; it is heavily used and stained from honest service but never-the-less has wonderful appeal. There is no insect damage, no tears and it has kept its shape perfectly. A must for a Spanish-American War collection. [pe][ph:L]

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