hat, top
hat, top
hat, top

hat, top

Object

Accession Number
2014.014.002c
Alternate Name
tophat
Description
Black beaver-felt top hat. Crushed, especially on one side, due to pressure on the top of the hat.
Narrative
This top hat 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 hat's two-part 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 1898
Material
Fabric, felt; Fur, beaver
Brand Name
Adolph Stern
Country of Origin
England

Related people/businesses/organizations
John William Bryden (owner)
Gerald Robert Bryden (owner)
Related Association
Royston beach house, residence of Mr. and Mrs. John William Bryden (was used in)
Related Objects

hatbox, 2014.014.002a-b (is related to)