Lighthouse keeper's hat, Cape Elizabeth
Item 13551
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Description
Lighthouse keepers wore this hat with the U.S. Lighthouse Service insignia as part of their dress uniform. The dress uniform, introduced in 1844, included the keeper's hat of dark indigo-blue wool with a black leather visor. The insignia identified lighthouse keepers and symbolized their dedication to the safety of the mariner. The embroidered, blue patch shows the lighthouse in white surrounded by gold leaf.