IDENTIFIED REVOLUTIONARY WAR PENNSYLVANIA MILITIA BRIMMED HAT.

This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 5/13/2026

Extremely rare, identified Revolutionary War American hat with old brown ink paper label stitched to the brim reading, “Worn by Henry Ranby / in the / Revolutionary War.” Round topped crown approximately 4” tall, with full linen lining, and approximately 4 - 1/2” wide brim. Both a “Henry Ranby” and a “J. Henry Ranby” are listed among the “Associated Battalions and Militia” 1775-1783 of Pennsylvania, where this hat originated. As militia no detailed service information is available and both may be the same man. Slightly lighter color to edge of the brim indicates it was bound and likely worn cocked as a tricorne, but these hats were frequently altered in various ways in service and not uncommonly worn simply “flopped,” as preserved here, especially among militia. CONDITION: Crown and lining very good. Brim intact but with edge losses as shown. Originally black, now oxidized to brown. Fabric shows crazing from exposure to the elements and likely two centuries of attic storage. A rare survivor.

Item Dimensions: 16" X 16" X 5"