Union Cap

[atom_okie]

Howdy CivilWarTalk!

I"m still rather shy about participation within this site, but hoping as I make my way through reading some Civil War literature, that I find myself emboldened enough to begin contributing to the everlasting dialogue.

Now to the purpose of this post: I wish to own a Union cap.

Full uniform currently unnecessary, but I find myself really wanting a Union cap to show off in every dwelling in which I take residence.

What is the best site, or provider, of authentic Union caps currently? I am seeking a cap that will even fit mine own oversized noggin.

Many thanks in advance, and a preemptive oopsie I'm sorry if this is the incorrect forum to ask this Q, or if the Q itself is laughable.

Hopefully, however, I can be directed to a reputable source by y'all!

Thanks!
Josh

 

[Dan Kohli]

The question you have is a very good one. The best cap maker I've herd of is Kepis by Starbuck. I think he since rebranded to Kepi Nation. I Believe there are a few other out there, but I'm forgetting their names.

The issue I think you will run into is that the price is in the hundred dollar range. How much are you willing to pay for the headgear?
Edit: I forgot to mention that Mr. Starbuck sells his wares on Facebook.

Daniel Kohli

 

[FrankN]

Hello Josh,
Maybe you're looking for a replica hat to wear? If so I'm sure you'll get some suggestions for some fine makers of replica caps (http://www.njsekela.com/index.php?cPath=27, http://www.dirtybillyshats.com/) I'm sure you'll get recommendations for other great ACW hat makers.

Finding original Civil War headgear is not easy. They are rare and not inexpensive. Also, ACW headgear being around 160 years old, they would be too fragile and too valuable to actually wear. There are different types of Union headgear but since you said "cap" I think you're referring to the classic Union forage cap. Here is a link to an original forage cap purchase primer by our very knowledgeable member Package4.

https://civilwartalk.com/threads/wh...al-acw-union-forage-caps.146012/#post-1815953

Most decent original caps will start around $2000 and will go higher depending on condition, any provenance, insignia and other factors. The knowledgeable members on this forum will be glad to help and advise. Post any caps your are considering here for opinions. Also, you'll get recommendations for books that will be helpful in learning about ACW headgear.


Just to get an idea…..
Here is one for sale by a very reputable dealer
https://shilohrelics.com/cgi-bin/Display_Item.asp?127333

This website has a few to look at.
http://midwestcivilwarrelics.com/headgear.html

I hope this helps but I'm sure you'll receive more thoughts and advice from the more knowledgeable collectors on this forum. You may also want to try the reenactors forum on this website if you're looking for a quality reproduction cap. Hope you find something you'll be happy with.

Regards,
Frank

 

[FedericoFCavada]

If replicas, you might just get one while visiting one or another Civil War battlefield?

Personally, I've got an ex-Bersaglieri chechia or fez as an example of Zouave headgear, a modern reproduction Hardee hat with "all the trimmings" for infantry, shortly I'll get the artillery stuff, a replica Union square-brim bummer that I bought at the Regimental Quartermaster in Gettysburg (presumably manufactured by Fall Creek? shrug...?) and a Confederate commutation-era forage cap in a rather blue-ish "cadet gray" on sale from C&D Jarnagin in Corinth, MS.

I tend to hew to western theater stuff more than eastern, and I do like the "less common" uniform items and whatnot... I've also got a replica Model 1825 "pinwheel" forage cap and a Republic of Texas army Model 1833 "hog killer" with correct replica buttons installed on the chin strap and so on... I use that stuff for living history in Texas, although there is hardly ever an occasion to use the Republic of Texas stuff because there are no events for after the Texas Rev. ... At least yet!

Good luck and good searching! The original items are way outta my league.

 

[atom_okie]

Thank you all very much for your advice & recommendations!!

I am indeed looking for a replica and not an original. I'll peruse the provided links, thank you again!