Beaver Top Hat

A stylish accessory from our Collection; join MMBC Volunteer Richard Turner in a look at a beaver felt top hat.
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[@mohawkvalleyphenomenon2974]

Just subscribed thank you for the info on this great beaver skin hat on top of that it would be interesting to know about the prosses of making them. I know a lot of people perished from mercury poisoning while doing this.

[@MaritimeMuseumofBC]

Thanks so much! Yes, the process at that time of hat-making and millinery was definitely a dangerous one!

[@mohawkvalleyphenomenon2974]

@@MaritimeMuseumofBC Thank you for your response it shows that you all at the museum care about your subs and most importantly history and education.👍

[@ponchimonchi4533]

That isn't even beaver!!! THAT IS A PLUSH SILK TOP HAT!!!!!

[@dariel7001]

That one’s actually beaver. The simple difference between silk plush and beaver pelt is the slight brownish color of beaver. I collect and restore top hats.

[@MaritimeMuseumofBC]

Hi Ponchi, thanks for your comment! We are actually getting in touch with Christy's (who are apparently still making hats!) to see if they have more information for us.

[@MaritimeMuseumofBC]

Hi Dariel, thanks for your comment! We are getting in touch with Christy's to see if they have any information for us--it would be great to confirm if we have one of the rare beaver ones, or if it is indeed silk plush. Our records say it is beaver, but always good to get more info!

[@dariel7001]

@@MaritimeMuseumofBC have they replied?