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Collapsible Top Hat

British fashion historian, Madeleine Ginsburg said, “The top hat is considered to convey authority and ambition, its shape to be a monument to the chimneys of the Industrial Revolution.” Throughout the 19th century powerful men wore the top hat. American Presidents also wore the style to their inaugurations, through that of John F. Kennedy in 1961.

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Collins & Fairbanks, Boston

Date: Circa 1900

Gift of Claire Crofts (Mrs. Dan), TTU-H2019-016-041

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