Red & brown nightcaps

I've already posted photos of one of this set of 8 nightcaps, the 2 in the photos below are the other jersey fabric's used in the set

Part of Ebenezer Scrooges wardrobe. 

Used to keep you head warm in the British Isle and other colder regions of Europe before central heating.

The long train of fabric forming the crown was used to wrap around the neck and act as a scarf.

Novelty Police Helmet

 Unlike the previous post, this is not a genuine police helmet.

A novelty helmet for a fancy dress made from that compressed paper mache felt substance that make the basic structure for a lot of novelty hats.

The size is also smaller than the real thing making it look almost comedic on my head.

This one does have a badge though.

Police Custodians Helmet

 The police Custodians helmets were first worn 1863 replacing the Top Hat worn before

Originally made of cork and balanced on the head they provided none or limited protection. It wasn't until the 1970's that a proper padding, safety style harness, chin straps and hard shells were gradually added.

This helmet is the crest style of custodians helmet, purchased without its badge on the front. Helmets with badges are sold for much more money as the badges are collectable.

One other note the custodian helmet is the helmet worn by male police officers

The photo below is from a reenactment of the Battle of Orgreave, a violent confrontation between picketer and police during the miner's strike.

Too Small for Me

 This coonskin hat is too small for my head. 

If I pull really hard the brim will stretch on but within a few minutes it contracts and springs up leaving it precariously balanced.

Not my hat but part of our crew kit, never seen anyone wear it, so might be something to pass on to a worthy smaller head.