Original Item: Only One Available. This European inspired Hussar uniform was worn with pride by R. Walker, a member of Squadron A, New York Hussars in the year 1900. The squadron was established in 1884 by a group of wealthy young men as an equestrian club, however, after membership was extended to Captain Charles F.Roe, US Cavalry, their efforts were recognized by having 53 of their members inducted into the New York National Guard in 1889. They were frequently called for duty to provide escorts for Presidents and other notables visiting New York City. During the Spanish-American War Squadron A served in Puerto Rico and during WWI members of Squadron A earned 3 Medals of Honor, 17 Legions of Honor and 24 Croix de Guerre.
 
The uniform is a light blue-gray wool attilla with black frogging and yellow trimmed cuffs. Only damage to note is minor, very light staining, beyond that it is in remarkable condition. The uniform features an A on both sides of the yellow wool cuff style collar, denoting the squadron. The inside still has the original manufacturers tag and can clearly and easily be read. The tag information is as follows:
 
BROOKS BROTHERS
BROADWAY
NEW YORK
Squad A (handwritten)
R. Walker
Date: 11/26/1900 No. 422
 
This is an incredible piece of American history and an item that doesn’t come up very often. This dress jacket has really good research potential, and comes ready to display!

THE HISTORY OF SQUADRON A
It all started in 1884, when 18 young equestrians formed the New York Hussars, first as a political club and then an exclusive troop cavalry, known for its expert riding and elegantly ornate uniforms. The stylish Hussars quickly became a very popular addition to New York City parades and National Horse Show events.

On April 2, 1889, the group, then some fifty-three strong, was mustered as Squadron A into the National Guard as NGSNY, the first cavalry arm of the Guard of the State of New York. The Squadron was often called out to escort presidents, governors and foreign dignitaries. Squadron A troopers were sent to Puerto Rico to serve in the Spanish-American war and the entire squadron was called into federal service in 1916 to patrol the Mexican border.

Later they served with distinction in World War I and, during World War II, its members became part of the crack 101st Cavalry Group that fought gallantly in Germany and Austria earning Congressional Medals of Honor, French Legion of Honor and Order of British Empire Awards, Distinguished Flying Crosses and a Presidential Unit Citation.

The heritage and spirit of Squadron A is embodied in its motto, “boutez en avant”, and carried on by the Squadron A Association with a clubhouse just off Fifth Avenue in New York City. As a volunteer, social and philanthropic organization it provides a venue for men and women to continue, preserve and forward the traditions, memory and contributions of the Squadron and the horse cavalry.

This is a bell crown busby with black astrakhan fur and yellow wool top with point folded over and secured with a button on right side. Gilded metal crossed saber insignia and black velvet-covered oval device with embroidered "A" attached in front; brass scale chin strap with black leather backing secured at either side by a gilded metal button embossed with crossed sabers; leather half-lining with cord lacing. Interior features a full leather liner and maker label from the Ridabock & Company of NY. Also included is a black horsehair plume along with tin transport storage case also marked to Ridabock. Offered in overall excellent condition. A less complete example of this incredibly rare busby can be found in the collection of the New York Historical Society located at this .