Original Item: Only One Available. This is a genuine Scottish Regimental Feather Bonnet, the classic military headdress of the “Highland” regiments in the British armed forces. These were used mainly by the Scottish Highland infantry regiments of the British Army from about 1763 until the outbreak of World War I. Originally the bonnet was made from cloth, but over time they evolved, influenced by the large feather head dresses that Native Americans wore. The 42nd (Highland) Regiment of Foot specifically was noted for having “disfigured” their bonnets during their service in the Americas, which started with the Seven Years war. Later the bonnet gained an internal frame that gives it the famous high profile. These are now mostly worn by pipers and drummers in various bands throughout the world, as well as for parade occasions.
This bonnet has the usual wool white, red and navy blue “diced” checkerboard around the bottom band, with a black “tail” on the side which has four separate sections. The left side of the helmet has a small fabric rosette, where the correct Red Hackle Plume of the Black Watch is installed. Unfortunately, while the cross pin is still there, the original cap badge for the black watch is missing, possibly because it was never put into service. There is little sign at all of wear on this example.
The leather liner…
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