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Amazing find, Cuz! Always cool to have a little piece of history like that. Even more so when it fits.Swann hat manufactured by the Swann Abram Hat Co., Louisvillle, KY. Not a lot of information or many hats out there that I’ve seen in regards to this co. Some American Hatter info from the 1880’s indicating they were in operation and a few other bits and pieces. Saw an ad from 1895 and an order card published in 1942 for “Victory Hats”. Saw a few writings that they were the first with the Kentucky Derby hats but I’ve found no examples. Nothing beyond the 1942 example. The former hat factory is now the Grady Hotel. A 51 room boutique spot near downtown Louisville. The lounge is called the Wild Swann. The only other hat I’ve found was a Clear Nutria fedora RLK had for sale in 2013.
This particular hat is also in Clear Nutria and is as black as a hole. Dimensions are 3 x 6 OC with a shoestring ribbon. Slight flange. The felt is a western weight that is very dense and fairly thin with a nice smooth finish. The brim is firm but workable and the crown is also firm but has that clay like malleability I associate with 7X CB’s and such.
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