Possible former owner Stephen Van Rensselaer IV (American, 1789 – 1868)

Shako with pompon

1851-1858

Place madeNew York, New York, United States, North America

Felt, leather, silk, wool, metal

Overall: 8 1/2 x 8 1/2 x 5 5/8 in. ( 21.6 x 21.6 x 14.3 cm )

Gift of Thomas H. Barber

1954.119ab

According to the accession records, the donor claimed that this shako belonged to Stephen Van Rensselaer IV before the Mexican War. The alternate dating given was suggested by military expert William L. Brown (Nov. 1999).

DescriptionShako with rigid, cylindrical, blue felt-covered crown with flat top and angled base; wide band, also of blue felt, with "N.Y." between laurel branches embroidered below peak in front; gilded metal insignia representing New York State attached top front; red leather sweatband and green silk lining; white pompon; missing visor and chin strap.

Markingsembroidered: on front of shako: "N.Y." maker's label: affixed inside top of crown: "James S. Smith & Co. / No 15 Dutch St / NEW YORK. / Manufacturers & Dealers / in Military Goods."

ClassificationsMILITARY TOOLS & EQUIPMENT: UNIFORM