Stetson
Stetson is an American hat brand founded by John B. Stetson in Philadelphia in 1865. It is best known for its cowboy hats, led by the Boss of the Plains design, as well as dress hats for men and women.
| Founded | 1865, Philadelphia |
|---|---|
| Founder | John B. Stetson |
| Signature hat | Boss of the Plains |
| Manufacturing | Texas, by Hatco |
| Website | stetson.com |
What is Stetson?
Stetson is an American headwear brand whose name has become closely associated with the cowboy hat. Its hats are made in Texas, where Hatco produces Stetson alongside other Western hat brands.
History
John B. Stetson founded the company in Philadelphia in 1865 to mass produce a hat he had designed for himself during a long journey in the American West. In the early twentieth century the Philadelphia factory employed more than 5,000 workers and produced more hats than any other company. The company was known for its paternalistic employee benefits, including pensions and a building association that helped more than 1,000 employees buy homes.
The Philadelphia factory closed in the early 1970s, and after the company's 1986 bankruptcy the Stetson manufacturing licence passed to new owners.
Products and positioning
- Cowboy hats, led by the Boss of the Plains with its high crown and wide flat brim
- Dress hats for men and women
- Hat boxes
The Boss of the Plains became the prototype for many later cowboy hat designs.
Why it matters
With more than 160 years of history, Stetson is one of the best known heritage names in headwear and a long running example of a brand operated through manufacturing licences.
Frequently asked questions
Who founded Stetson?
Stetson was founded by John B. Stetson in Philadelphia in 1865.
What is Stetson known for?
Stetson is best known for cowboy hats, especially the Boss of the Plains, as well as dress hats for men and women.