History of the Stovepipe Hat

A stovepipe hat, also known as a top hat, is a dignified hat that was commonly worn in the 19th and early 20th centuries. Although it was worn in a variety of social settings for years, it was popularized by President Abraham Lincoln, as it became a vital part of his attire.

History

In the early years of the 1800s, an English hat maker named John Hetherington designed and wore the first stovepipe hat. Stovepipe hats were originally made from beaver felt because it was such a durable material. In later years, silk replaced the beaver felt.

Features

The stovepipe hat is easily recognized by its tall sides, which resemble a chimney. It features a flat top and a broad brim. The historian James Laver once said that an group of stovepipe hats looked like factory chimneys and thus added to the mood of the industrial era.

Types

The Wellington style hat, which was popular in the 1830s, had tall, concave sides.
A Gibus hat was a style of stovepipe hat that folded flat. This type of hat was designed for men who attended the opera. It could be easily stored.

Famous Ties

Other than Abraham Lincoln, the stovepipe hat is also associated with Uncle Sam, Dr. Suess' "The Cat In The Hat," Willy Wonka, The Mad Hatter, and the mascot for the game of Monopoly.
Folding stovepipe hats are commonly used for magic tricks such as pulling a rabbit out of the hat.

Fun Fact

It was common for Abraham Lincoln to store speeches and other important documents inside his hat.

References

• Baron Hats Top Hat Info
• Stovepipe Hat History