Pillbox Hat

By Crusader1307

A common piece of Military Headgear, which was seen in the late 18th and 19th Centuries, The image on ice Pillbox Hat can actually trace it’s lineage back thousands of years to a similar headpiece used by late Roman Republican Era Soldiers. It is commonly misnamed a “Forage” Hat in some Countries. Designed as a circular wool with linen backed Cap, it is made to somewhat closely fit the top of the head of a Soldier. No brim is used with a Pillbox. It was stabilized on the head by a leather Chin Strap, worn in a variety of ways and styles. It’s name comes from it’s resemblance to 19th Century medicine pill tins and cardboard containers used by Apothecaries and Physicians. Color varied, depending on the particular Army using them. Great Britain adopted The Pillbox Hat early, and maintained it more as a form of “Undress” Hat for non-formal Events. The Pillbox Hat did not really catch on in America. During The Civil War, some Northern Units who had emulated certain European Armies, did briefly adopt The Pillbox (The short lived US Hussars, by example). All but discontinued by the start of the 29th Century, the at times “jaunty” style of The Pillbox was not forgotten. It became a major fashion accessory for Women throughout The World in the 1950s and mid-60s (slightly modified, of course). The Pillbox can still be seen occasionally worn by Ceremonial Military Units throughout The World.