HATBOX - TOP HAT
c. 1880 - 1926Base of top hat storage case, cylindrical with extended lip to accommodate hat brim. Has part of a strap attached midpoint one side with a lock diametrically opposite about the same height. Body covered in leather, inside lined with fabric.
Lincoln Bennett & Co hat makers were a well-known British hat making company that sold its hats all over the world including Australia. The company started in c1846 and was located on Sackville Street in Piccadilly until the 1900s. The company won many awards for their hats across the world in the late 1800s. A similar hat to this was sold by David Jones in Sydney for 25 shillings in 1886.
The hat was owned by George Dumsday who when not wearing it kept the hat in its box. It is believed that he was photographed wearing the hat in a family portrait in Forrestdale in the early 1900s (image SDPC 18 at the BLSL).
The hat stayed in the family and was passed onto his granddaughter Ursula who donated it to the museum.
Details
Details
This object is part of a collection of items associated with a person or family who have played a significant role in the economic, community or social development of the City of Armadale. This can include holding key political or social positions within the community, being a key contributor or member of a community organisation, a strong contributor to improving the well-being of the local community, a prominent figure in a local business or industry, developer of new industries or activities or someone who grew up in the area and moved away and had a noteworthy career or life.
