Accession Number

2014.014.002a-b

Description

One brown oval hat box and lid. The bottom (a) of the case has geometric black lines and a green stripe along the bottom with a torn shipping label reading "ctoria London." On the bottom of the case is a label from the manufacturer of the box only (not the hat 2014.014.002c). A brown leather strap is attached to either side and fasten on top of the lid (b). The lid is stamped with John William Bryden's initials.

Narrative

This case and the top hat kept inside it (2014.014.002c) was once owned by John William Bryden (1869-1953) of Royston, BC. He acquired it in Germany, probably while engaged in his study of mine engineering at The Technische Universität Bergakademie Freiberg (usually translated from German as Freiberg University of Mining and Technology or Freiberg Mining Academy). Mr. Bryden’s initials are stenciled on the top of the case.

History of Use

John William Bryden used this hat in Germany from 1898-1899 and after that on Vancouver Island in Victoria and Cumberland. It was inherited by his son and later by his granddaughter who donated it to Craigdarroch Castle

Date

circa 1897

Material

Leather

Inscription

torn label:
ctoria London

lid:
JWB VIC.

Country of Origin

Germany