We The People: Invention of the Stetson Hat

BISMARCK, N.D. (KFYR) - Over the last 250 years, there’s been a lot of clothing that has helped shape America into what it is today. But there’s probably nothing more iconic than Stetson Cowboy Hats.

It all began back in 1865, just as the country’s westward expansion was beginning to accelerate. It was then, that John B. Stetson invented this wide-brimmed hat to protect pioneers from the sun and rain.

The hats also became a major cultural symbol, making way into western films in the early days of Hollywood and on to the heads of presidents.

The brand’s story continues to live on with workers in Texas at the Hatco Factory, whose families have been making the Stetson Hat for generations.