As recently as the 1970s, the hat-wearing public abided by start and stop dates that fell on or near September 15 and May 15, which were known as Felt Hat Day and Straw Hat Day, respectively.

French fur traders sought beaver pelts in North America, trading with native populations for furs or hunting down beavers ... They molded beaver felt over hat blocks into desired styles before ...

By Jenny Gross A black felt bicorn hat belonging to Napoleon Bonaparte ... a gilded crib, a bejeweled hunting rifle and even his stockings. An engagement ring belonging to Napoleon’s wife ...