Bollman Hat Company 1870s Bollman Heritage Collection Spoon in Leather Brown

Business grew steadily for George Bollman since founding the company in 1868. In 1874, George bought out his partner, Isaac Sowers. In 1875, George purchased twenty two acres of land at a total cost of $2,200. Many inventions were introduced throughout the 1870s such as the typewriter, telephone, vacuum cleaner, phonograph and the electric light bulb. These, and other products of the Industrial Revolution, resulted in a growing economy that supported a little extravagance. In 1878, fire destroyed the building that Mr. Bollman purchased in 1875. A building was rented immediately so operations could continue while a new building was erected later in the same year.Bustle dresses came in at the end of the 1860s and remained in style throughout the 1870s. The jacket-like bodices were worn with large skirts that were folded and ruffled. Small hats and bonnets continued to be in style because of the large twist hairstyles. The spoon hat became popular later in the 1870s featuring a shallow, spoon shape crown and a wide brim. Our spoon is a chestnut brown color with a fabric flower ornament and a velvet band. This hat comes in a special edition Bollman Heritage Hat Box.