Black Leather Volunteer Fire Company Parade Hat

Romantic · 1840s · American

A tall cylindrical leather hat with a wide flat brim, characteristic of American volunteer fire company ceremonial headwear from the 1840s. The black leather surface is decorated with painted gold lettering reading 'RINGGOLD' and 'HOSE CO.' surrounding a central oval medallion containing a portrait. Red painted accents highlight the text and decorative elements. The crown stands approximately 6-7 inches high with straight sides, while the brim extends horizontally in a perfect circle. This type of parade hat was worn by volunteer firefighters during public ceremonies and parades, serving both as protective headwear and a symbol of company pride and civic duty.