The History and Symbolism of the Iconic Sheriff's Hat of the Old West

The Iconic Sheriff's Hat: A Symbol of Law and Order

The sheriff's hat, with its distinctive wide brim and tall crown, is one of the most iconic symbols of the Old American West. While many associate the hat with cowboy movies and television shows, the sheriff's hat has a long and storied history dating back to the early days of policing in the United States.

The Origins of the Sheriff's Hat

The concept of a sheriff dates back to medieval England, where each county had a "shire reeve" who was appointed by the king to uphold the law. These early lawmen wore many different styles of hat based on the fashions of the era. However, when English colonists first arrived in America in the early 17th century, there was no standard uniform for sheriffs. Some wore tri-corner hats, others wore rounded "bicorne" hats, and many wore no special headgear at all.

As the American Frontier began to push westward in the 1800s, the need arose for a universal symbol of the authority and dignity of the sheriff's office. The wide-brimmed hat with a tall crown was chosen for its simple, functional design. The wide brim provided shade from the glaring sun, while the tall crown allowed hot air to rise up and out of the hat. For early pioneer sheriffs contending with the harsh conditions of the Old West, the form and function of this hat made it an ideal choice.

The Culture and Lore of the Sheriff's Hat

In the Old West, a sheriff's hat held special symbolic meaning. Citizens knew that when they saw this distinctive hat, the wearer was a lawful presence to be respected and obeyed. Outlaws and bandits also recognized the sheriff's hat, understanding clearly that the man wearing it meant business.

Given its importance as a symbol of authority, early sheriffs took great pride in their headgear. Hats were carefully shaped and creased using steam, sweat, and elbow grease. The ideal sheriff's hat had a tall crown and a wide brim that was flat on top but curled dramatically up at the edges. Hats were made from durable felts in black, tans, and browns to conceal trail dust and dirt.

In the mythology of the Old West, the sheriff's hat took on larger-than-life associations. To hang up one's hat became synonymous with retiring from the office of sheriff. Criminals and outlaws "die with their boots on" when the sheriff got his man. And citizens would plead for the sheriff to "go get your hat" when law and order began to break down.

Manufacturing the Sheriff's Hat

While Stetson received credit for inventing the cowboy hat, no single company can claim to have created the first sheriff's hat. Many early versions were handmade by hatters to a sheriff's personal specifications.

By the early 20th century, several American hat companies were mass producing quality sheriff's hats. Some of the top manufacturers included:

• Stetson
• Resistol
• HatCo
• Milano Hat Company
• Baron Hats

These companies used techniques perfected over decades to shape rugged, long-lasting sheriff's hats from premium fur-felt blends. The highest quality hats were made from beaver, rabbit, and other furs.

Hatters used steam, pressurized molds, and their bare hands to form the iconic wide brim and tall crown shape synonymous with the sheriff's hat. The finishing touches included a leather hat band and a golden badge or medallion pinned on the front. This painstaking craftsmanship resulted in durable, weatherproof sheriff's hats capable of lasting decades if properly cared for.

The Sheriff's Hat Today

While sheriff's departments today utilize a wide variety of modern uniform pieces, the traditional sheriff's hat remains a powerful symbol of law enforcement across the country. Whether worn in a rural county sheriff's department or as part of a ceremonial honor guard uniform, the iconic shape is instantly recognizable.

Sheriff's hats are also popular attire for certain events and professions where the Old West aesthetic is celebrated. Rodeo competitors, country musicians, and horse trainers frequently wear stylized versions of the sheriff's hat as a nod to the cowboy way of life. For these wearers, the sheriff's hat is a connection to history and tradition.

Additionally, companies like California Hat Company, Inc. and Harley's Hats manufacture sheriff's hats for popular media productions like films, television shows, theatrical plays, and commercials. For audience members, seeing these iconic hats on screen transports them back to the frontier era that forms such an important part of America's cultural heritage.

Whether worn by real lawmen of days gone by or modern wearers evoking the spirit and style of the Old West, the iconic shape and look of the sheriff's hat remains a powerful symbol of America's rich frontier history and mythos.

FAQs

What is the difference between a sheriff's hat and a cowboy hat?

While often confused, a sheriff's hat is different from a cowboy hat in a few key ways. Sheriff's hats have taller crowns and wider brims specifically angled to provide shade and airflow. They also frequently feature a badge or medallion pinned to the front. Cowboy hats have shorter crowns and smaller brims better suited for riding horses.

When were sheriff's hats first worn?

There was no standard sheriff's hat in early colonial America. The iconic tall crown, wide brim hat emerged in the early 1800s as Americans pushed westward and a unifying symbol of law enforcement became necessary.

What materials are sheriff's hats made from?

Traditional high-quality sheriff's hats are made from felts blends including rabbit, beaver, and other animal furs. Lesser quality versions use wool and cotton blends. Premium hats are steam-shaped and molded for durability.

Are sheriff's hats still worn today?

Yes, certain sheriff's departments and ceremonial units continue to wear traditional sheriff's hats, though modern police uniforms have diversified. The iconic shape remains popular for rodeo competitors, country singers, and Old West reenactors.

What famous sheriffs wore the iconic hat?

Famous Western lawmen known for their signature sheriff's hats include Wyatt Earp, Bat Masterson, and Sheriff Pat Garrett of Billy the Kid fame. Their hats contributed to their larger-than-life legends.