Location: Homer and Dolly Hand Art Center

When John B. Stetson crafted and marketed the now iconic Boss of the Plains cowboy hat in 1865, he created an enduring legacy of style, craftsmanship, and American spirit. Curated by Elizabeth Maycumber in celebration of the 160th Anniversary of the Stetson Company, this multi-sited exhibit traces the early history of this pioneering hat and its creator, along with a magnificent variety of Stetson hat designs from over the years. Highlights range from men’s top hats and sombreros to ladies’ toppers and pill box hats, and other surprises from Stetson University’s duPont-Ball Library Archives and Special Collections, the John B. Stetson Company, and the Museum of Art-Deland. 

Sponsored in part by the State of Florida through the Division of Arts and Culture and the National Endowment for the Arts, with additional support from the duPont-Ball Library and a special collaboration with the John B. Stetson Company.