This cap is part of the Doggett’s award of the coat and badge. The cap is of red wool with a leather peak and is lined with silk/wool twill.

The Doggett’s coat and badge were the prizes in a race, founded by Thomas Doggett, and Irish actor and comedian, in 1715 to commemorate the accession of the George I to the throne. Doggett organized the race until his death in 1721, he stipulated in his will that it be continued on, each 1st of August, in perpetuity. The course is from London Bridge to Chelsea, and originally the competition was to be between six watermen in the first year of their Freedom. However, the race is now held in July, and in 1971 the qualification for participants was extended by the Watermen’s Company.

This cap was won in 1886 by Henry Cole.