Shako

1930-1940

Place madeNew Jersey, United States, North America

Wool, other textile, leather, metal

Overall: 5 1/4 x 9 7/8 x 8 1/2 in. ( 13.3 x 25.1 x 21.6 cm )

Gift of Colonel Mortimer Lasky

1950.135g

According to the accession records, this shako was worn by the donor as a member of the Brooklyn-based 23rd Regiment, National Guard New York. Other parts of his uniform are also in the N-YHS Collection.

DescriptionShako with rigid, cylindrical, black felt-covered crown which is flat-topped and angled forward; wide band of gold metallic cloth tape around upper edge of crown; grommet-reinforced hole for pompon holder; circular gilded metal insignia with number "23" in applied metal on black enameled disk at center, and inscription, "VIGILANTIA / N.G.S.N.Y.," in relief within circular border; gilded metal scale chin strap with black oilcloth backing attached at either side to a hook suspended below a large gilded metal button embossed with crossed rifles; black leather sweatband and black textile lining.

Markingsapplied metal: on front insignia: "23" in relief: on front insignia: "VIGILANTIA / N.G.S.N.Y." maker's label: inside top of crown: "Redbank / SIGMUND EISNER CO." printed/typewritten: on paper label tucked inside sweatband: "Medical 106th Inf. / Sigmund Eisner Co. / Uniforms and Clothing / RED BANK, N. J. / 1st Lt. W. A. Lasky / hat- 7 P2299"

ClassificationsMILITARY TOOLS & EQUIPMENT: UNIFORM