Early 1900's Merchant Marine Hat

Description

This is a 1920's - 1930's Merchant Marine hat. The hat appears to be made of black cotton material, but a tarred rain cover has been permanently attached that covers the actual hat material. The rain cover is identical to one that came through the shop a while back that was for an early 1900's GAR hat. The hat was manufactured by the Henderson-Ames company of Kalamazoo, Michigan. The black tarred leather visor is in good condition and is securely attached. It has been stored improperly at some point, and has old paper stuck to the underside of the visor. A woven black cord serves as a chin strap, held securely to the hat by two silver navy buttons. The buttons depict an eagle perched atop a horizontal anchor. There are three cannon balls below the eagle and nine five point stars surround the eagle. The fluke of the anchor is in front of the eagles wing. A silver gilt band 1 1/4" wide is sewn to the base of the hat. Attached to the front of the hat is a screwback type insignia made by N.S. Meyer, Inc. of New York. The insignia is that of an anchor with chain and a shield imposed showing sailing ships in the harbor with Mount Fuji in the background, a rising sun appearing above the mountain. The hat is fully lined, the lining being in very good condition. The makers label of Henderson-Ames is clearly visible in gold print in the top of the hat. Printed in gold below the makers label is the name W.D. Robertson. I don't know if this is a vendors name, or the name of the individual that ordered the hat. The brown leather sweatband is hand stitched onto the hat and is loose in several spots. The sweatband also has the Henderson-Ames logo stamped in it. A size 7 tag remains attached to the back of the sweatband. This is a peculiar piece that needs some research done on it, but I just don't have the time. One of you naval collections should enjoy this one, it is solid in construction and displays well.