Images(4)

Bicorn

Object number94.51.712 a,b

Retailer William H. Horstmann Company

Datec. 1812

MediumBeaver; Leather; Metal; Silk

Credit LineTransfer from Carnegie Museum of Natural History, gift of Grier C. Orr estate

DescriptionBeaver pelt bicorn hat and storage box.Dimensions11.75 x 7 x 19 in. (29.8 x 17.8 x 48.3 cm)
MarksLabel printed on interior: Wm. H. Horstmann/Military Store/No. 51 North Third St
Historical NotesThis hat was part of Robert Orr's military uniform. During the War of 1812 Orr served as a colonel in the US Army. After the war he became a politician. The hat was donated to the Carnegie by his son Grier C. Orr. In 1816 Orr successfully ran for a seat in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives. He served two terms (1817–1820), after which he successfully ran for a seat in the Pennsylvania Senate. He served there from 1821 to 1825. He resigned before completing his term because he had been appointed as a Jacksonian member of the Nineteenth Congress U.S. House of Representatives to fill the vacancy caused by the resignation of James Allison Jr. In 1826 Orr successfully ran for re-election, to the Twentieth Congress. He served in that capacity from October 11, 1825 to March 3, 1829. After his term, he re-entered the US Military again and acquired the rank of Brigadier General. He died at age 90 in Kittanning, Pennsylvania. Grier C. Orr estate to CMNH; transfer to Heinz History Center, 1994.

Previous owner Robert Orr Jr. (1786 - 1876)

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