History of the Beaver Hat

A beaver hat in its modern incarnation is more than simply a fashionable head accessory. For centuries, the beaver has played an important role in the economy of several European countries. Today, these animals are still used in many different ways, from fabric weaving to being the source of some of the world’s most luxurious and intricate bedding designs. Historically, the beaver was prized for its valuable wool which, in time, came to be valued even more for the unique properties it possessed. Today, beaver hats are among the most popular headwear options for both men and women.

A beaver hat, often made of felted beaver wool, is a simple yet stylish hat typically made of a flat, wide brimmed visor that protects the face. They were very popular across much of Europe throughout the medieval period (from the time of the beaver himself) until the rise of the mass production of sweaters in the fifteenth century. Although the popularity of beavers waned with the advent of cheaper wool blends, they gained popularity again in the nineteenth century as people became increasingly aware of their therapeutic properties. Today, they are popular once more as people seek hats with special properties that are meant to protect the skin against the ravages of the winter months.

Historically, the beaver was not used solely as a protective head gear. They were also prized for their use in crafting patterns such as sweaters and alpaca blankets. In fact, beavers are still occasionally used in needlework and other types of decorative and functional art. Today, beavers are often used as the inspiration for unique textiles, such as shawls, throws, scarves, capes and ponchos.