PATTERN 1895 FORAGE CAP BLACK COTTON COVER:
I found three of these black cotton covers for the
Pattern 1895 Forage Cap in the same box as the oil cloth
rain covers listed above. While I have been unable to
find any reference to these covers and they are not
marked in any way, from the shape and size, they were no
doubt intended for the Pattern 1895 Cap.
Given the army’s practice of masking buttons and other
insignia in black crepe during a funeral or any other
occasion when demonstrating a period of mourning, I
suspect that these covers were intended for just that
purpose. They would have been worn by officers to cover
the bright gilt insignia on their forage cap in a sign
of respect for the deceased.
The material is light weight, not substantial enough for
every day wear over a long period of time, and the type
of material which would be practical for this limited
sort of use.
The black material is lined in a sky blue lightweight
cotton. There must have been some sort of label or ink
stamp in the center of the crown which was intentionally
cut out for some unknown reason. Perhaps it was a mark
that identified this cover to a specific officer at one
time.
I’ve never seen these covers offered on the market
before, but as I noted above they were found in the
context of the known rain covers and there is no doubt
they were intended for use with the same hat.
This cover would display quite nicely with your Pattern
1895 Forage Cap and make for an interesting conversation
piece. (0932) $60
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