The History and Style of the Iconic Deadwood Hat of the Old West

The History of the Deadwood Hat

The Deadwood hat has become an iconic symbol of the American Old West. With its wide brim and tall crown, this style of hat is instantly recognizable. But where did it come from and how did it get its name?

Origins of the Wide Brimmed Hat

Wide brimmed hats first emerged in the 1840s as protection from the hot American sun. They were perfect for life in the frontier, shading the face and neck. The original deadwood hats were made of beaver felt, which helped draw sweat off the head and keep cowboys cool.

The crown was tall to allow hot air to flow out easily. The wide brim angled down to cast a shadow over the face. These design elements helped regulate temperatures in the blazing heat of places like Deadwood, South Dakota.

Why It's Called a "Deadwood Hat"

So how did this style of hat become known specifically as the "deadwood?" The name comes from the town of Deadwood, South Dakota.

In 1876, Deadwood experienced a gold rush. The town exploded from a small settlement into a thriving frontier town and became infamous for lawlessness, raucous saloons, and gunfights.

The wide brimmed beaver felt hat became extremely popular among the gold prospectors and gamblers who flocked there. It was the perfect fit for life in the wild frontier. And so the style soon became associated specifically with the town of Deadwood.

Key Features of the Deadwood Hat

Today, the deadwood hat continues to be made from beaver felt. This helps maintain the authentic look and feel of the Old West originals. Here are some key features that define a deadwood hat:

Wide Brim

The wide brim is key for providing ample shade from the sun. It will usually measure 4 to 6 inches wide. A narrow brim would not provide enough protection for life outdoors.

Tall Crown

The tall crown provides ventilation, allowing hot air to escape. A short crown would trap heat in and make these hats uncomfortably warm. The crown is typically 4 to 6 inches tall.

Crease Down the Crown

Most deadwood hats include a crease down the center of the crown. This allows the wearer to slightly adjust the width of the hat so it stays on while riding a horse or doing other activities.

The crease also contributes to the overall look that makes these frontier style hats so recognizable. It adds character that harkens back to the gold rush days.

Leather or Grosgrain Band

A leather hat band or grosgrain ribbon hat band finishes off the deadwood. The band wraps around the base of the crown, adding a pop of color and a bit more Western flair.

The Comeback of the Deadwood Hat

While the deadwood hat peaked during the late 1800s, it is currently experiencing a resurgence in popularity. These vintage style hats are being embraced for their iconic look and ability to make a statement.

Influenced by Westerns

Westerns have continuously romanticized the American frontier era when deadwood hats reigned supreme. As these films and TV shows remain popular, fans increasingly adopt the deadwood as part of the cowboy or Western aesthetic.

The deadwood hat makes wearers feel like they are part of their own Western. It's no surprise that this style made such a statement during the 19th century frontier era and continues to capture the imagination today.

Used in Fashion

Many high fashion designers and retail brands have incorporated deadwood hats into their collections. Ralph Lauren, for example, repeatedly features this style of hat. The deadwood adds a rugged, adventurous vibe.

Music and fashion icons like Pharrell Williams and Mary J. Blige have sported these hats. Their influence further propels the deadwood back into the mainstream as a fashion symbol.

Where to Buy an Authentic Deadwood Hat

Thanks to the recent resurgence of the deadwood hat, multiple retailers now offer high quality versions. But where can you find one that accurately captures the Western spirit?

Quality Specialty Stores

Check out stores that specialize in Old West and Americana style clothing. Many carry authentic deadwood hats for both men and women. These retailers often focus on premium materials like beaver felt to maintain historic accuracy.

Western Wear Shops

Businesses catering to modern cowboys, rodeos, and ranching are also a good bet for sourcing deadwood hats. They understand how to balance historical design elements with functionality for today's wearers.

Custom Hat Makers

For a truly one-of-a-kind statement piece, go to a custom hat maker. Many skilled artisans handcraft deadwood style hats to order from the highest quality materials. Customization allows for small tweaks too.

So whether you consider yourself an old time cowboy or a cutting edge fashionista, the deadwood hat makes a bold addition to your wardrobe. Let this iconic headgear transport you into the adventure, romance, and legends of the American Old West.

FAQs

What is a deadwood hat?

A deadwood hat is a wide-brimmed, tall crown hat that was popularized during the 1876 Gold Rush in Deadwood, South Dakota. It's distinguished by its wide brim, tall crown, crease down the middle, and leather or grosgrain hat band.

Why are they called deadwood hats?

They are named after the infamous Old West town of Deadwood, South Dakota. As gold prospectors flooded into the lawless town, the wide brimmed hat became extremely popular and soon became associated specifically with Deadwood.

What are deadwood hats made of?

Authentic deadwood hats are made from beaver felt, just as they were originally made in the 1800s. Beaver felt helps regulate temperature, wick away sweat, and maintain the classic look.

Who wears deadwood hats today?

Deadwood hats are popular among fans of Westerns, rodeos, country music, and Americana style. Many high fashion designers have also incorporated them into recent collections.