US Shako Hat

By Crusader1307

The Shako Hat was a standard issued item for both Officers and Enlisted men in most Land Forces of The US military – around the 1840s to the beginning of The War (1861). Considered a “Dress Hat” for parades and other ceremonies, The Shako was based on French and German designs. Tall, stiff (made from leather covered in cloth – in some cases), they featured various types of plumes (colors depending on Branch of service). Large brass stamped crests were affixed to the front. Shako's were heavy and often uncomfortable to wear. By the mid-1860s, most Shako Hats were seldom seen (and only rarely among Musician Corps.)