Vintage Black Fur Felt Pork Pie Hat 7 3/4 GUS MILLER Batsakes KY CASTLE RB Martin RARE.  Hat is one from the private collection of R. B. Martin the Lexington contractor who built the Kentucky Castle as his personal home in 1969 after spending his honeymoon in Europe.  He fell in love with the European castles he saw there deciding to build one for he and his wife to occupy as their home in Lexington, KY. After his death in 2003 the castle was sold. Today it is a botique hotel/event center.

Mr Martin was an admirer of finery, especially hats. Over the years he commissioned Gus Miller of Batsake Shop to make custom hats for him. This hat is one from that collection. Gus Miller is known internationally for his exceptional customized hats, and has been written up more than once nationally for his work.  Mr. Miller is still working in the shop at age 91.  The hat itself is easily over 20 years old, and likely much more as Mr. Martin suffered from an extended illness prior to his death in 2003.

The hat is black with a black hat band.  It is in very good condition.  There are a couple barely visable marks on the hat....see photos for condition.  The felt appears to be fur felt which is what Mr. Martin usually bought,  but it is not labeled as such. The hat is quite exquisite and has plenty of life left in the felt. It has a satin liner. Definitely timeless construction in an understated yet sophisticated style with a touch of elegance and daring....ready to step out for any occasion.

Measurements:  Width of hat is 7  inches. The length is 8 1/2 inches.

          Circumferences around brim inside 24 in.

           Brim 3 inches

           Crown 4 inches

           Hat Band 1 3/8 inches

Only the hat is included in this item. Flowers and other added items in some photos are not.

Next day delivery to the post office.