$40
Three (3) brown felt hats plus a rush straw hat, all with original Herbert Johnson labels to inside, all in new condition & never worn. Rush straw hat has original size label indicating the size to be 7-1/4 (59), & another label indicating "100% Rush Straw". Felt bowler hats are all marked to inside rim "Herbert Johnson 13 Old Burlington Street, London W1", and original size labels indicating the following three (3) sizes: 7-3/8 (60), 7-1/8 (58), & 7-1/4 (59). Two (2) of the felt hats have original plastic & foam protectors, one does not. All in overall good condition.Herbert Johnson History: In 1872, a young Lad named Herbert Louis Johnson was apprenticed, by his parents, for seven years to hat-makers Lincoln Bennett, to learn the trade. He obviously did well and in 1889 on the somewhat unlikely advice of the Prince of Wales (later to become King Edward VII), he went into business with one Edward John Glazier at 45 New Bond Street, London W1. The story recounts that one day when the Prince of Wales was riding in the park, his top hat blew off, damaging it. The young Herbert Johnson who happened to be ‘to hand’, picked up the Royal topper and offered his professional services. The hat was duly repaired. The Prince was pleased and subsequently suggested to the young hero that he set himself up in business. All this came to pass and Herbert Johnson soon became well known for all forms of headwear for the well-dressed gentleman including Royal patronage.Fame and success came
Auctioneer:
Bremoauctions
Date:
2017-06-17
