An incredible survivor from the 1892 Presidential Election: an original "G.O.P. Campaign Hat" for the Republican ticket of Benjamin Harrison and Whitelaw Reid.
Interior Details:
The centerpiece of this hat is the original, rare paper campaign label affixed to the interior crown. It features crisp portraits of Harrison and Reid flanking an image of the U.S. Capitol, topped by a bald eagle and the "Protect Home Industry" platform slogan.
Physical Characteristics:
Style: Tall-crowned, wide-brimmed tan felt "High Hat."
Band: Features the original brown grosgrain ribbon band.
Indiana History: Benjamin Harrison, the 23rd President, was a notable Indiana resident, making this a premier piece of local and national history.
Condition Report:
This hat is in "as-found" antique condition. The felt shows expected age-toning, minor spotting, and some misshaping from long-term storage. There are some minor tears in the felt hat itself. The vital paper campaign label is mostly intact with some age-toning and minor tearing, but the portraits and text remain very legible.
Collector's Note:
Authentic campaign headwear from the 1890s is rarely seen on the open market, especially with the interior identification label still present. This would be a cornerstone piece for any serious political Americana or Indiana history collection.