December 7th Militaria and Aviation Auction
Lot 270:
Description
This lot features an extraordinary and historically documented grouping of artifacts belonging to Lieutenant Thomas D. Cabot, an early pilot and instructor in the US Army Air Service USAAS during and immediately following World War I. The provenance is exceptionally strong, linking the uniform directly to a notable figure whose life is documented in his autobiography.
The centerpiece of the grouping is the WWI US Army Air Service OfficerÕs Uniform, consisting of a highly desirable Standing Collar Tunic and a pair of matching trousers. The tunic is constructed of olive drab wool, featuring the distinctive high collar typical of the period, and is adorned with original US and Air Service OfficerÕs Insignia. The trousers are of matching material and construction. Both garments retain inner tailor tags from Rosenfield & Rapkin, Boston, Mass, with one tag clearly handwritten with the name T. D. Cabot and the date 11-9-17 November 9, 1917, confirming his commission and uniform issue date during the war.
The grouping is significantly enhanced by additional accessories and historical documentation: a pair of period leather officerÕs riding boots in excellent condition, a reproduction photograph of Lieutenant Cabot in his uniform, and a copy of his autobiography, Beggars on Horseback: The Autobiography of Thomas D. Cabot. The book contains photographs and text that visually confirm CabotÕs service as a flying instructor with the Curtiss Jennie plane and his early aviation experience. Historical research confirms Thomas D. Cabot was a significant figure who later became a prominent businessman and Director of Emergency Economic Affairs for the State Department, making this uniform group exceptionally well-documented.
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