From the inception of railroading, railroad workers have captured the public’s imagination. During the 1840’s, attention was especially drawn to railroad conductors who began wearing distinguishing apparel, thus creating the first railroad uniform. A prominent article of the crisp, dark, tailored uniforms was the small billed, dark colored, fine silk hat, bearing a silver nameplate which read “Conductor.”
Uniforms It wasn’t long before other workers commenced wearing similar uniforms, with their own titles, such as brakeman, switchman, agent, telegrapher, etc., emblazoned on the silver nameplate. Starting in 1870, railroad companies began issuing official uniforms to all train crew members, with the exception of the engine crew.
Hog Head Hats
Today
|
Last updated: April 29, 2025