Feb 1-May 31, 2020
Cowboys & Hatters seeks to expand the viewer’s understanding of the historical and sociological evolution of men’s hats through the exhibition of a vast array of authentic hats, related memorabilia, and photography. Ranging from cowboy hats, beaver fur caps, and classic top hats, among others, the show demonstrates the pivotal role hats have played throughout the centuries. Additionally, the exhibition includes insight into hat making processes. All works are from the collection of Dr. Debbie Henderson.
Dr. Debbie Henderson is the costume designer for the Wittenberg University Department of Theatre and Dance. In her work, Dr. Henderson researches clothing worn in other centuries and other countries while attempting to discover the attitudes clothing conveys and inspires. This interest prompted her interdisciplinary doctoral work on the history and manufacture of the man’s hat, undertaken through the Union Institute in Cincinnati, Ohio. Dr. Henderson is the author of Cowboys and Hatters: Bond Street, Sagebrush, & the Silver Screen (Wild Goose Press, 1996), The Handmade Felt Hat (Wild Goose Press, 2001), Hat Talk (Wild Goose Press, 2002), and numerous journal articles.