Straw hat

This straw hat is believed to have been worn by Queen Victoria (1819-1901). Although now appearing deceptively plain, the crown of the hat was probably once decorated all over with fabric trims. Victoria often wore hats like this outdoors, with her widow's cap underneath.

The label inside the hat reads 'TO HER MAJESTY THE QUEEN AND THE ROYAL FAMILY, ROBERT HEATH. 25, ST GEORGES PLACE. Hyde Park Corner. Est. 1649.'

In 1872 Robert Heath advertised himself as 'Hat Maker to the Royal Family'. He was the fourth son of Henry Heath, a hat manufacturer of some repute whose premises were at 393 Oxford Street, London. It is believed that Robert Heath did not join his father's family business, although it seems likely that this is where he learned his trade. He set up his own hat business and premises at St George's Place, Hyde Park Corner, London.

Hat manufacturing was an important business in the 19th century when it was customary for everybody to wear a hat. For women there were hats for every occasion, from walking, riding, morning wear, and even home use. Straw bonnets were worn during the summer months.