Posted 14 years ago
oldgamelady
(1 item)
I found this adorable top hat and had to have it. It's unlike anything I've ever seen. It's so small. As you can see from picture 3, it's much smaller than an equivalent adult/man's hat. Because the smaller hat fits a 12 yr old child while the other falls to her ears, I am assuming it was for a child but it might fit a very small woman. The internal rim measurements are: Side to side: adult: 6", child's: 5 3/4". Front to back: adult 7 5/8", child's 7 3/8".
The side lining is a bit raggy, but otherwise it's in wonderful shape. I'm no expert but it looks and feels like beaver - definitely not silk. I've found the label (see picture 2) on other top hats dated pre-1900 but nothing specific about the maker or exact period.
That's all I know although I've scanned the net. I can't find anything on a hat this size. Any info on maker, period, history, value, etc. would be more than welcome. Thank you in advance for any help you can provide.
