Hats small folks as Leeds city museum starts historic head count ⋆ Leeds Star

Leeds Museums and Galleries’ audience development officer Sara Merritt holds a tiny top hat, one of a remarkable range of tiny replica hats, some of which fit in the palm of a hand. They were made by Leeds hatter John Craig in the early 1900s and is being carefully conserved as part of a project at the Leeds Discovery Centre.

Sara Merritt, Leeds Museums and Galleries audience development officer hold a miniature jockey’s hat. The remarkable range of tiny replica hats, some of which fit in the palm of a hand, were made by Leeds hatter John Craig in the early 1900s and is being carefully conserved as part of a project at the Leeds Discovery Centre.

Leeds Discovery Centre- audience development officer Sara Merritt.

Leeds Museums and Galleries’ audience development officer Sara Merritt holds a tiny tricorne hat, one of a remarkable range of tiny replica hats, some of which fit in the palm of a hand. They were made by Leeds hatter John Craig in the early 1900s and is being carefully conserved as part of a project at the Leeds Discovery Centre.

An Edwardian hat made using peacock feathers. The hat, part of the collection at Leeds Discovery Centre, dates from a time when feathers on hats were used in huge quantities.

In Leeds, museum experts and volunteers are embarking on a fascinating endeavor to document a captivating array of historic headwear, including a magnificent collection of vintage miniature millinery.

Crafted by the skilled Leeds hatter John Craig in the early 1900s, these exquisite replicas of hats, some so small they can fit in the palm of one’s hand, are undergoing meticulous conservation at the Leeds Discovery Centre. Originally fashioned to showcase the hatter’s craftsmanship and the diverse array of products available to clients, these miniature hats encompass a variety of styles for both men and women. Among them are top hats, riding hats, gold-trimmed bicorne and tricorne hats, and feather-trimmed hats.

Leeds Discovery Centre- John Craig established his business in the popular shopping district of Park Row. — John Craig established his business in the popular shopping district of Park Row, Leeds in the late 19th century. The shop remained there until 1936 before moving to Wellington Street, where it traded until around 1947.

At present, the centre houses an approximate total of 200 items crafted by John Craig, who founded his enterprise in the bustling shopping district of Park Row, Leeds, during the late 19th century. For several decades, the store thrived in this location until 1936, after which it relocated to Wellington Street, where it operated until around 1947. A brochure dating back to 1927 lauded John Craig’s commitment to providing quality hats, evolving from a general hat supplier to a specialist in selecting hats of the most suitable shape, with a keen emphasis on wearer comfort.

John Craig who established his business in the popular shopping district of Park Row, Leeds. — John Craig who established his business in the popular shopping district of Park Row, Leeds in the late 19th century. The shop remained there until 1936 before moving to Wellington Street, where it traded until around 1947.

Natalie Raw, curator of costume at Leeds Museums and Galleries, has collaborated with a team of student volunteers from The University of York to meticulously document the breadth of the John Craig collection and other artifacts housed at the Leeds Discovery Centre. Natalie Raw said:

“The quite remarkable variety of shapes, sizes and colours of hats in our collection shows the many different ways they have been worn over the decades, including practically as a status symbol, and sometimes as a flamboyant fashion statement.

“These wonderful miniature hats in particular demonstrate the skill and artistry possessed by one traditional Leeds hatmaker and the pride he clearly took in his work. It’s fascinating to think of each of them carefully and meticulously made in the workshop and then proudly shown to potential customers.

“We’re fortunate to have such an extensive collection to go through and it’s been so rewarding to find out more about the history behind these beautiful, stylish creations.”

The Leeds collection also boasts other notable headwear pieces, such as a Tudor hat discovered buried in London’s mud and ornate hats crafted from the feathers of birds, including peacocks. During the 1500s, Milan emerged as the hub for luxury accessory production, including hats. Merchants from Milan, known as milliners, specialized in selling such embellishments.

By the Victorian era, the term ‘Milliner’ became exclusively associated with hat design and crafting. Leeds itself had a vibrant and competitive hat industry, with historical records and advertisements revealing the presence of numerous hat emporiums established along Briggate and Boar Lane.

Councillor Jonathan Pryor, Leeds City Council’s deputy leader and executive member for economy, culture and education said:

“Fashion and textiles have been a key part of the Leeds story for generations, and played a pivotal role in establishing the city we know today. Having such a fantastic and unique collection which reflects that story so well is an incredible asset for Leeds and something which will ensure our city’s heritage is preserved for future generations.”

The Leeds Discovery Centre welcomes visitors, but tours must be scheduled in advance. For further details regarding tour times and booking information, please visit Leeds Discovery Centre – Leeds Museums & Galleries