The answer to your questions:
What genius created such a trademark look? That would be John B. Stetson, a prospector and cowboy in the 1850′s.
Where did the cowboy hat come from? Mr. Stetson created the cowboy hat because of his experience as a cowboy and prospector; he needed one. The cowboy hat’s functionality includes (but is not limited to): sun-blocker, wind-blocker, head warmer, rain-blocker, water carrier, bowl, a flag, horse trough, or the stylish finishing touch to any and every outfit
All that shaping, creasing and steaming – where did that come from? The shaping of hats goes back to individual cowboys wanting to create their own unique style. It quickly beacame a “road-map” of the wearers political leanings. Read below for more!
The Story
John B. Stetson, who spent time as a prospector and cowboy, realized the need for a functional hat. His design was the basis for the modern cowboy hat – The Boss of The Plains.
This legendary and distinct looking hat was crafted of fur felt. It could withstand whatever a rough cowboy or prospector could dish out. Using hot steam, the wearer could create their own unique style by creasing the crown and shaping the brim. The crease became, over time, a “road map” of the wearer, an identification tag of sorts. Creases became so specific, an observant person could tell from which region the wearer hailed – even which ranch he worked! Political leanings could also be discovered.
The brim readers guide for telling political persuasion:
Flat-top hat: The wearer has Monarchist views.
Rounded crown: The wearer favors democracy and individual freedoms.
Today there are over 20 different creases available in felt hats. The style of hat a person wears can still be an insight into their personality. If a person sports an original Boss of The Plains, chances are, he or she is a Western purist. This sort of person might also wear the
Tom Mix, Gus and Hesperus styles; all different takes on the 10-gallon hat of the movies and TV Shows. Also iconic: The Royal Canadian Mounty and U.S. Army Drill Instructor hat with the creases known as “Mountain Peaks.”
Modern style dictates change and variety – so cowboys today enjoy shaping brims as well as the crease. While the Boss of the Plains is less common, newer styles that signify the modern cowboy are the Classic Rancher and Laredo, which are seen in rodeo grounds all over.
Different regions produce different popular styles. For example:
Australia or New Zealand: The Outback crease.
Mexico: The Mountain Peak or 10-gallon hat are both reminiscent of the Mexican sombrero.
The cowboy hat has always been the assumed accessory. But, it is also very functional, as well as stylish. The symbolic quality it provides has kept it a favorite for generations throughout history. Hats today still serve as a road-map of the wearer – just like their ancestors.
If you have a question we didn’t cover here – just ask! Use the form below, and we’ll get back to you as soon as we can.
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