Rain or shine, soldiers in the Civil War had to march on and follow orders. In the rain, this cap would have helped its owner First Lieutenant Abner St. Cyr to see. A piece of clothing that was non-regulation, like this cap, was one that was not officially issued by the military. Lieutenant St. Cyr was a part of the Fourth Minnesota, which participated in the Siege of Vicksburg. For their bravery during the fight, the Fourth Minnesota was honored with the privilege of leading the Union Army into the captured city.