Here is what we found out about this piece of historical memorabilia. The inside has the original maker.
Foster; started making clothing and goods for Troops in 1887 till 1900. So this is most likely from the Indian Wars era of the 1890s. Manufacturers of Military and Society Goods 172 Madison St.The front brim is black leather and the two side buttons are still on cap, have American Eagles! Hat is approximately (flat) 10" front to back x 6.5" side to side.
COMPANY "D" - The front has brass / bronze Crossed Swords with the letter "D" below. Company "D" 1st Battalion 181st Infantry Regiment. Is a heavy weapons company in the 181st Infantry Regiment.It provides anti-armor and heavy machine gun support to the battalion operations. In the National Guard, companies sometimes have two histories. They share the history of the regiment to which they are assigned, but also may have a unique company history and lineage. Therefore, Company D 1-181 IN shares the long history of the 181st Infantry Regiment (United States). This site concentrates on the unique history of Company D as a militia / National Guard company in Whitinsville, MA.
This is quite worn, but actually in better condition than we figured. The brim in front is a little unattached but someone at some point in time tried to re-sew it to front of cap.There are some tiny moth holes here and there (see pics) and the is coming apart and needs to be refinished / redone. Overall amazing piece, please see pictures.
The item "Authentic 1884 Indian Wars Union Soldiers Hat GF Foster Son & Co. Post Civil War" is in sale since Monday, August 6, 2018.
This item is in the category "Collectibles\Militaria\Indian Wars (1866-97)\Original Period Items". The seller is "zaxxon713" and is located in Houston, Texas. This item can be shipped worldwide.