Help Dating Antique Hat

[maubrey]

I recently purchased this antique hat for a steal. It is in need of some repair; a few of the feathers have fallen off and I need to reattach them. The hat is a small circle shape with feathers completely covering the top and one longer feather kind of hanging off to the side. There are "chin straps" made of red grosgrain ribbon. I believe the hat is from the 1800s but need some help dating it. Any info will be greatly appreciated. Thanks!

 

[Rue_de_la_Paix]

Hi,

Thank you for letting us see your latest find. Judging just from your photos, I date the hat to 1939-1945. WWII time period. The red ribbon does not go under the chin, it goes under the hair at the back of the head. The hat probably is meant to be worn tilted forward at a jaunty angle, over the forehead and to 1 side. The label is from a department store or shop that sold the hat It is a great style and so yes I would restore it. Do you have all the feathers that have fallen off? When you glue them back, be sure to use a water based glue, never a hot glue gun or strong adhesive. Those are called coque feathers, from a certain variety of rooster. If you need more you can easily find/buy them on Ebay to complete the hat.

I would love to see it restored and displayed.

 

[Vintagiality]

You have probably already seen this but in case you haven't here is the history of the company http://www.fundinguniverse.com/company-histories/the-elder-beerman-stores-corp-history/

The firm incorporated in 1911 so your hat would be a little newer than 1800 but it could be from the early 20th century. I am sure the experts would chime in.

 

[maubrey]

Thanks for the info everyone! Yes, I do have all the original feathers that fell off and I will definitely upload a pic once I restore it!!