Civil War Officer’s Chasseur Style Cap

Civil War Officer’s Chasseur Style Cap – This cap is a superior example of a Civil War officer’s chasseur style cap; the cap is distinguished by its comparatively flat crown, slightly tapered sides, and a lower cut at the sides; this style of cap was often worn by Union officers – the style was influenced by the French “Chasseurs” infantry who wore similar caps. In essence, it’s a style of forage cap with a distinctive, slightly lower profile compared to the standard forage cap. This cap exhibits a single strand of wool-braided quatrefoil, indicating that the original wearer was a Lieutenant. The deep blue wool body of the cap retains strong color; there are two or three very small insect nips and one pencil eraser size nip in the wool. The cap retains its original chinstrap and is affixed to either side of the cap by Massachusetts staff officer cuff buttons. The brim of the cap is bound and is in excellent condition. The interior of the cap is lined in dark brown, polished cotton, with a circular gathering via threading; the interior crown is an enameled pasteboard. The sweatband, made of scored, thin, brown leather, is complete and in good condition, with one worn area where the original wearer’s forehead rubbed during the cap’s period of use. Although many Union officers chose to wear this style of cap, few war period examples are available today.