The cowboy is an icon of American history—a romantic figure as well as a skilled, hard-working contributor to the success of ranches and farms. The cowboy hat is inseparable from the cowboy image and has roots in practical function. Here’s how it came about and became what it is today.

Origins of the Cowboy Hat

Hats have been worn for centuries, for both purpose and fashion. The earliest relative of the cowboy hat was likely a version worn by horsemen of Mongolia in the 13^th century and in later centuries by Spanish riders. The hat made its way to the U.S. during the Spanish exploration of the Americas, where wearers altered the shape of a wide brim and tall crown to more appropriately fit a cowboy’s work. The curled brim evolved to shed rain more efficiently and keep out of the way of a lasso when roping. The dented crown made it easier to handle when taking the hat on and off, and it helped preserve the crown’s shape.

The First Stetson®

Stetson® hats are famous the world over and are recognized as the original modern cowboy hats. Hatmaker John Stetson went to the West in the 1860s in hopes that the arid climate would help cure his tuberculosis. While on a hunting trip, he fashioned a hat out of beaver and other animal furs, replicating the wide brim and tall crown he’d seen on Spanish hats. One popular story suggests that while wearing the hat, Stetson happened upon a cowboy who bought it off Stetson’s head for the astounding sum of $5—modern Stetsons range from $150 to $400. Stetson began to replicate his hats, making changes over time, until they took on the current famous shape.

Why Cowboys Wear Hats

Although cowboy hats come in many different styles, colors, and materials that speak to personal taste and fashion, the original hat was a practical object. The primary purpose was to protect a cowboy, who often spent weeks or months outdoors, from the elements. The felt or wool material was durable and shed water—wearers could even use a hat as an improvised water bucket to give a thirsty horse a drink. The wide brim protected the head and face from sun, rain, snow, and hail. Since the tall crowns captured heat from the head and held it near the body, it also kept the wearer warm in winter.

Whether you are a working cowboy or just like the look of a fine hat, Liberty Western in Lebanon, OH, offers a full selection of cowboy hats and hatbands, boots, and western wear. There are plenty of selections for men, women, and children in this friendly store. Tack and saddlery are available too. Call (513) 933-0900 or visit their website to discover all their available products.