Dimensions / Weight

Dimensions: 3" H x 7" W x 10.5" D

Physical Description

Model 1858 forage cap, navy wool with black leather visor and chin strap, with gold colored buttons. Officer’s insignia inembroidered gilt with a laurel wealth containing “U.S.” in the center.

Specific History

This cap was worn by Dr. Nahum Parker Monroe.

General History

This model forage cap was the most popular headgear worn by the Union army. The forage cap was adopted as standard army headgear. The visor can be flat or sloping. The forage cap was introduced just in time to become the signature headgear of the Civil War soldier. The 20th Maine Volunteers were organized at Portland and mustered on 29 August 1862. They left the for Alexandria, Virginia on 3 September 1862 where they were attached to 1st Brigade, 1st Division, 5th Army Corps, Army of the Potomac, until October 1862. From then until July 1865 they were attached to the 3rd Brigade, 1st Division, 5th Army Corps. They ended the war with the surrender of Lee and his army. The 20th took part in the Grand Review on 23 May 1865 in Washington and the last of the regiment was mustered out on 16 July 1865.