THE HUMMEL BONNET An investigation of its production, design and significance in military uniform

The role of experiment has long been established as an effective means through which to explore past aspects of material culture, architecture and site formation processes (Coles 1979, Mathieu 2001 etc.). Items of dress have not routinely been incorporated in experimental projects. This investigation explored the utility of archaeological methods for gaining insight into how aspects of the uniformed body was constructed in Victorian Britain, focusing specifically on the production, design and significance in military uniform of the hummel bonnet. The work included a detailed review of available sources of evidence especially Calotypes, detailed study of extant artefact evidence and an experimental reconstruction of a hummel bonnet, using recognised experimental archaeological theory.

In undertaking this task, the techniques and approaches used are typical of experimental archaeology and analysis and examination of historical costume and are put to the test in order to evaluate their utility for this kind of research. The research considered material and method of construction aiming to adopt as near an accurate reconstruction as possible.

Findings of the research offer insight into experimental techniques and how these could be developed to further understanding of historical artefacts and makes comment about the role and value of re-enactment as a presentation of ‘history’ and the risks this may pose.