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Mad for Hats!

Straw and lace, feathers and ribbons - women’s hats are made to be seen. This was called a ‘transparent hat’ since the brim was made of lace, but it’s the peach moiré bows on bows that take your attention. Woman's Hat, maker unknown. Straw, lace and silk, Philadelphia History Collection, c. 1915.

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It's a beautiful day to just hang around the city. In 1780, "hanging around town" implied an entirely different afternoon.

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Last month, on March 19th, the Museum hosted After School Activities Partnership's annual Philadelphia Scholastic Chess League All-Star Match. 48 students were divided into two teams, representing schools North and South of Market Street. The matches were held in the Main Gallery, where a large walkable map of Philadelphia covers the floor – one of the Museum’s most beloved attractions. The Museum was thrilled to be a part of such an enriching program for Philadelphia’s youth!

The Museum often receives comments from visitors who want to tell us of their experience; what they liked, what they loved, or what reminded them of their childhood, or their great grandfather, or their great-great grandfather! The Museum’s vast collection and engaging galleries work as a catalyst for millions of stories and experiences to be shared among Philadelphians, and Museum visitors alike.

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Mrs. William Penn [Hannah Callowhill] (1664-1726), c.1740-1742.
Attributed to John Hesselius (1728-1178); oil on canvas,
Philadelphia History Museum Collection
 

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Willa T. [Talley] Moss (1895-1994) for Legislature, 1940.
Political campaign button. Maker unknown; ink, metal, cardboard.
Anonymous gift, 2010, Philadelphia History Museum Collection
[Politics / Women, 10.18.2, dimensions 3 ½” diameter]

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Stephen Smith (c. 1795-1873) was one of a number of prominent free black residents in Philadelphia during the mid-1800s. A noted abolishionist, his portrait featured in the Museum's City Stories exhibition, depicts Smith later in life, likely done shortly after his family’s move to the city in 1842.

Since the museum has been open, patrons have been sharing stories in the Philadelphia Voices exhibition about their memorable experiences with Philadelphia. We encourage you to share your own Philadelphia story with us by emailing info@philadelphiahistory.org. Here are a few more stories that make up Our Hometown History!

Since the museum has been open, patrons have been sharing stories in the Philadelphia Voices exhibition about their memorable experiences with Philadelphia. We encourage you to share your own Philadelphia story with us by emailing info@philadelphiahistory.org. Here are a few more stories that make up Our Hometown History!

Since the museum has been open, patrons have been sharing stories in the Philadelphia Voices exhibition about their memorable experiences with Philadelphia. We encourage you to share your own Philadelphia story with us by emailing  info@philadelphiahistory.org. Here are a few more stories that make up Our Hometown History!