This is a vintage Mallory Fifteen fedora made of fur in the 1950s. It is a cream-colored bound snap brim fedora with a fitted size of 7-1/4. This rare hat is perfect for everyday wear and has a rockabilly style. It was made in the United States and is a great addition to any vintage accessories collection.
I edited my description about the wool because the history says they used a variety of furs back then. In my research, it looks like this was made before Stetson bought out Mallory in 1952, although they didn't start branding their hats with the "Mallory by Stetson" label until the 60's so it is only an assumption.
The detail in this hat is amazing. The brim is about 2-1/2" wide. It has a thin ribbon with a button holding the wind trolley lapel cord so you don't lose your prized hat to the wind!
Doesn't look like it was ever worn. I took photos of all angles so you can see the condition. Comes in a Resistol hat box.
History from the internet search:
[The Mallory Hat Company has a fascinating history, especially as one of the oldest hatters in the United States and the originator of the fedora type hat. Let’s delve into the details:
Founding and Early Years:
- The company was founded in 1823 by Ezra Mallory near Danbury, Connecticut, which was known as “Hat City” due to its prominence in the hat industry1.
- Initially, they produced high-quality hats from furs such as hare, rabbit, beaver, muskrat, and nutria, sourced from various parts of the world, including Russia, Australia, South America, and Scotland1.
Ezra A. Mallory’s Innovations:
- Ezra A. Mallory, Ezra’s son, played a significant role in the company’s growth.
- He expanded the business and moved the shop to Danbury Village.
- Under his leadership, the company introduced machinery to improve production efficiency, including machines for making naps, mixing, blowing, forming, stretching, blocking, and punching1.
- The younger Mallory also bought pelts from the Indians, traveling to Canada to purchase beaver, muskrat, and other skins1.
Acquisition by Stetson:
Label Changes:
In summary, the Mallory Hat Company’s legacy lives on, and its influence on the fedora style remains significant. The transition to Stetson ownership marked a pivotal moment in its history, but the exact timing of label changes may require further research by hat enthusiasts and historians. ]