Garland celebrates its rich cowboy hat legacy with landmark sculpture
- A giant cowboy hat sculpture was recently unveiled in Garland's Downtown Square, commemorating the city's cowboy hat-making heritage.
- The giant sculpture highlights Garland's official designation as the Cowboy Hat Capital of Texas, established in 2013.
- This celebration of craftsmanship underscores Garland's importance in the history of cowboy hat manufacturing and attracts visitors eager to learn more.
In Texas, a new giant sculpture was unveiled in Garland's Downtown Square to honor the city's long-standing tradition of hat-making. This monumental cowboy hat measures 20 feet long, 16 feet wide, and 8 feet tall, quickly becoming a local attraction for visitors looking to capture a memorable photo. The designation of Garland as the 'Cowboy Hat Capital of Texas' was established by the state legislature in 2013, recognizing its nearly century-long history of hat craftsmanship that dates back to the 1930s. Notable hat manufacturers like Resistol and Stetson have operated in the city, contributing to its legacy. Garland's Cultural Arts Director, Amy Rosenthal, shared insights about the city's historical significance in the cowboy hat industry, emphasizing that many famous personalities, including former U.S. Presidents and celebrities like Beyoncé, have worn hats made in Garland. The Landmark Museum features an exhibit titled 'Hats Off to Garland,' which showcases the rich history of hat manufacturing and includes rare collectibles that tell the story of this unique craft. Simultaneously, in Bowie, Texas, the American Hat Company has been thriving for over a century. The company has made a name for itself by producing handmade cowboy hats, a process that involves 18 meticulous steps and utilizes machinery that is over 100 years old. Under the leadership of President Keith Mundee, the company has focused on quality craftsmanship and has seen a surge in demand due to renewed interest in Western culture and aesthetics in pop culture. As a result, the factory is currently experiencing a backlog of orders for felt hats. The American Hat Company recognizes the cowboy hat as not just a style but a symbol of American heritage and values, representing hard work and integrity. As demand continues to grow, the company remains committed to producing high-quality hats that reflect this legacy. Overall, the celebration of Garland's hat-making history and the American Hat Company's growth signify the enduring cultural relevance of cowboy hats and their role in shaping regional identity.