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United States Military Academy Marching Band Shako Hat
Image courtesy of the Barack Obama Presidential Library
United States Military Academy Marching Band Shako Hat
Image courtesy of the Barack Obama Presidential Library

United States Military Academy Marching Band Shako Hat

Artifact SeriesDomestic Gifts
Artifact IDDO.128084.a-c
Object Type Shako
Gifter
Intended Recipient (American, 1964)
Medium textile (wool, nylon, synthetic), feather, plastic (vinyl), metal (brass), adhesive, stain, wood (composite)
DimensionsOverall - 3D (.a-b: Hat with Plume, Assembled) H 19 3/4 in x W 7 in x D 9 1/4 in (50.2 cm x 17.8 cm x 23.5 cm )
 Overall - 3D (.a-c: Hat with Plume on Stand, Assembled) H 28 in x W 7 in x D 9 1/4 in (71.1 cm x 17.8 cm x 23.5 cm )
 Manufacturer's Size: 7 1/8
Physical DescriptionA United States Military Academy marching band leader's shako hat with stand. Shako is made of wool and plastic, with brass detailing and feather plume on top. The hat is comprised of the circular, short-brimmed hat (.a), which has a flat plastic top into which a dark green feather plume (.b) is inserted. At front is a metal shield with bald eagle at top, and helmet and sword at center. There is a brass chain that goes along the top edge of the brim, and is attached at each side to a brass button featuring the logo of the US Military Academy. Attached to each button is also a leather strap that hangs below the hat. There is an adjustable leather band on each side of the strap. The inside of the cap features a leather sweatband.
Included with the hat is a wooden display stand (.c), comprised of a square base and circular pedestal. The circular pedestal is incised with a diamond pattern, and there is a brass band at the top and bottom. Affixed to the front of the stand is a metal plaque.
Historical NoteReceived in connection with First Lady Michelle Obama delivering remarks at the United States Military Academy Class of 2011 Graduation Family Banquet. The hat was on display in the East Wing of the White House from May 2011 until January 2017.
Custodial History / ProvenanceThe item was a gift from a member of the general public to First Lady Michelle Obama during the Obama Administration. It was received through the Office of the President and maintained there until its transfer to the National Archives in January 2017 for deposit with the Obama Presidential Library.Additional Details
National Archives Catalog CollectionBarack Obama Artifact Collection (National Archives Identifier 63542091)
National Archives Catalog SeriesDomestic Gifts (National Archives Identifier 66540613)
Use Restriction StatusRestricted - Possibly
Use Restriction NoteCopyright or other proprietary rights may be held by individuals or entities other than the Obama Presidential Library and Museum. The Obama Presidential Library and Museum does not warrant that the use of materials will not infringe on the rights of third parties holding the rights to these works, or make any representations or warranties with respect to the application or terms of any international agreement, treaty, or protections that may apply. It is your responsibility to determine and satisfy any copyright or other use restrictions. Pertinent regulations can be found at 36 C.F.R 1254.62.
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