Description

Here again is our elbow length rubberized cape made in the pattern of that designed and popularized by the Fraternal and Political organizations participating in the election of 1860 and beyond. Vulcanized rubber capes were made by many different manufacturers during the pre-war and wartime period in many different configurations as evidenced by the many advertisements for such goods extant. Worn extensively by civilian and military alike in the pre-war and wartime era – a cottage industry for them was built from the Political and Fraternal movements and their night torch and lantern parades alone. These capes do not represent in any manner any modern political movements which may be utilizing any historical monikers. Vulcanized rubber capes were made by many different manufacturers during the pre-war and wartime period in many different configurations as evidenced by the many advertisements for such goods extant, worn extensively by civilian and military alike. (many photos are extant documenting this pattern in use by these organizations – we are also happy to recommend Mike Woshner’s “India-Rubber and Gutta-Percha in the Civil War Era as an excellent single source reference to many of historical notes)  Of the many makers advertising rubberized material and goods, the Rubber Clothing Company had possibly the widest spread distribution with stores and factories from Chicago to Boston. The interior of our cape is stamped with their mark. (this mark was found routinely in finished products but also served material manufacturers mark on bulk yard goods) Based on our research, this cape most commonly utilized a single button at the neck with no applied collar and is pictured falling at about the elbow, depending on the height of the individual. (a rare original example indicates a very simple hem at the neck as we have done) The cape closes with a small General Issue eagle button, as seen on several original examples. The cape is most commonly seen worn over the individuals coat and often with the coat collar pulled out over the neck. Made of a tighter weave and lighter weight vulcanized cotton drill, not as heavy as some and more comfortable, just as period advertisements offered. This is a very comfortable weight material with a finish comparable to an original enameled oil cloth cap we examined and identical to a piece of original vulcanized material in our collection. We are very excited to offer it with these capes. The cape is all sewn construction with hand sewn button hole. Flat felled back seam and front facings. Skirt is hemmed. These are full hanging capes without shoulder seams or multiple side pieces, as per originals. They take a significant amount of material to make in this period correct configuration. (material that is getting more and more expensive to purchase or produce) The single and double rows of red, blue, or white tape applied to the edge of capes in photos and color lithographs designated organizational leaderships positions, the rank and file were plain as we offer here, although the rank indication could be easily applied. It should be noted that we have researched vulcanized capes extensively and sold multiple different versions over several decades. This version cape was also marketed in the period as an addition to the military overcoat in order to make it more versatile in colder inclement weather. The collarless examples can be employed in this fashion for the ultimate protection for those cold rainy days when the overcoat is still needed, or the wet snow days that soak through the shoulder of the overcoat and make the wearer miserable. They fit neatly over the overcoat cape and under the collar looking smart without adding significant weight. An essential for Guard Duty in such conditions. (be the envy of the duty squad – rent  yours out when off duty!) Of course, these capes could be worn by the ladies as well. This run is sold in a singular size with a reasonably generous neck measurement to accommodate the gamut of need and also fit under the coat collar. Very Limited run.