Collections record Beta

Box

2016-66-3d

Tin epaulet and hat box, owned by Rear Admiral Charles L. Hussey. Tole painted, rectangular metal box with hinged top, central metal handle, and square tin clasp and carabiner lock on a short chain. Brass nameplates on top read "JOSEPH STARKEY/23 CONDUIT ST/LONDON" and "Rd No 294819." Hand painted in white, "C L HUSSEY/U.S. NAVY." Multiple labels on box: White Star Line (lid), U.S. Customs (side, right), American Railway Express Co. address labels (partial on side, left; complete on rear), and American Railway Express Co. shipment label (rear). Red felt lining on lid and red velvet lining on sides and bottom. Hinged epaulet holders above raised oval hat form.

Charles Lincoln Hussey (1870-1934) served in the Navy from 1892 to 1927, after attending the Naval Academy between 1888 and 1892. Born in Rochester, NH and died in Litchfield, CT. Awarded the Navy Cross for his command during WWI, in which he transported troops and supplies to European ports on board the U.S.S. Birmingham. Retired as a Rear Admiral, a position he attained sometime after 1920. Married Harriet Brownson, daughter of Rear Admiral Willard H. Brownson, later Superintendent of the Naval Academy.

• Joseph Starkey

1920-1927

Length 17.875", Width 8.5", Height 9"

• brass
• silk
• paint
• tin
• velvet