Union Enlisted Man’s Forage Cap Made by George Hoff & Company

Union Enlisted Man’s Forage Cap Made by George Hoff & Company – This Type II, enlisted man’s forage cap was constructed by George Hoff & Company of Philadelphia. Hoff produced approximately 620,000 caps, for issue to the Union Army, between 1861 and 1865. Hoff’s caps exhibit a rather large disc, accompanied by a more cylindrical body. This cap retains its original company letter and regimental number, with their attachment prongs pierced through the disc and folded over on the interior crown. The cap also retains its original chin strap, affixed to the side of the cap by two General Service eagle buttons. The interior of the cap is lined with a brown, polished cotton; a complete Hoff label remains in place on the interior crown, enumerating that the cap is a size 7^1/8. Overall, the cap remains in strong condition, with some scattered areas of insect nips; the blue color is strong, as well. The visor is firmly in place, and the scored, sweat band is complete and in good condition. The polished cotton lining is in excellent condition, with no tears or weak areas. These issued caps are becoming rather difficult to find; this is the first one we have been able to obtain in a long time.