Horse Hat, 1890-1915

01

Artifact Overview

Beginning in the late-19th century, American animal welfare proponents suggested that work horses wear hats to help keep the animals cool in summer. Soon, bonneted horses pulling omnibuses, hacks, delivery wagons, and other vehicles appeared on city streets. The use of horse hats waned when some questioned their effectiveness, and as electric and gas-powered vehicles replaced the hard-working horse.

Artifact Details

Artifact

Straw hat

Date Made

1890-1915

Location

Not on exhibit to the public.

Object ID

2017.0.34.264

Credit

From the Collections of The Henry Ford.

Material

Cotton (Textile)
Straw (Plant material)
Net (Textile)

Color

Beige (Color)
Red

Dimensions

Height: 5.75 in
Width: 9.25 in
Length: 11.5 in

02

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