Christiansburg Institute Marching Band Hat
The Green Marching Band Hat is more than a relic; it’s a cherished artifact that embodies the historical and cultural legacy of the Christiansburg Industrial Institute (CII) and its enduring impact on communities throughout Virginia’s New River Valley. This wool hat, with its cracked leather brim weathered by time, was proudly worn by a member of the CII marching band. Known for their distinct high-step style, outstanding musicality, and iconic green attire, the CII marching band was beloved in parades across the region, captivating crowds and inspiring pride.
In 2024, this artifact was selected as one of Virginia's Top 10 Endangered Artifacts, a prestigious honor awarded by the Virginia Association of Museums through a program funded by the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS). Christiansburg Institute Museum & Archives (CIMA) staff nominated the Green Marching Band Hat to underscore its historical importance and highlight the urgent need for preservation.
By sponsoring the preservation of the Green Marching Band Hat, you are actively helping to protect a piece of New River Valley’s history. The hat requires extensive cleaning, restitching, and leather repair on the brim. Your support ensures that future generations can appreciate this symbol of Black excellence, resilience, and cultural pride. Join us in safeguarding this artifact and preserving the story of the Christiansburg Industrial Institute for years to come.
Adopt this artifact today and become a part of its legacy!
The Green Marching Band Hat is more than a relic; it’s a cherished artifact that embodies the historical and cultural legacy of the Christiansburg Industrial Institute (CII) and its enduring impact on communities throughout Virginia’s New River Valley. This wool hat, with its cracked leather brim weathered by time, was proudly worn by a member of the CII marching band. Known for their distinct high-step style, outstanding musicality, and iconic green attire, the CII marching band was beloved in parades across the region, captivating crowds and inspiring pride.
In 2024, this artifact was selected as one of Virginia's Top 10 Endangered Artifacts, a prestigious honor awarded by the Virginia Association of Museums through a program funded by the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS). Christiansburg Institute Museum & Archives (CIMA) staff nominated the Green Marching Band Hat to underscore its historical importance and highlight the urgent need for preservation.
By sponsoring the preservation of the Green Marching Band Hat, you are actively helping to protect a piece of New River Valley’s history. The hat requires extensive cleaning, restitching, and leather repair on the brim. Your support ensures that future generations can appreciate this symbol of Black excellence, resilience, and cultural pride. Join us in safeguarding this artifact and preserving the story of the Christiansburg Industrial Institute for years to come.
Adopt this artifact today and become a part of its legacy!
The Green Marching Band Hat is more than a relic; it’s a cherished artifact that embodies the historical and cultural legacy of the Christiansburg Industrial Institute (CII) and its enduring impact on communities throughout Virginia’s New River Valley. This wool hat, with its cracked leather brim weathered by time, was proudly worn by a member of the CII marching band. Known for their distinct high-step style, outstanding musicality, and iconic green attire, the CII marching band was beloved in parades across the region, captivating crowds and inspiring pride.
In 2024, this artifact was selected as one of Virginia's Top 10 Endangered Artifacts, a prestigious honor awarded by the Virginia Association of Museums through a program funded by the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS). Christiansburg Institute Museum & Archives (CIMA) staff nominated the Green Marching Band Hat to underscore its historical importance and highlight the urgent need for preservation.
By sponsoring the preservation of the Green Marching Band Hat, you are actively helping to protect a piece of New River Valley’s history. The hat requires extensive cleaning, restitching, and leather repair on the brim. Your support ensures that future generations can appreciate this symbol of Black excellence, resilience, and cultural pride. Join us in safeguarding this artifact and preserving the story of the Christiansburg Industrial Institute for years to come.
Adopt this artifact today and become a part of its legacy!