“Correct and dependable” was the slogan for Etchison Hat Company, Inc., which had been producing felt hats since 1866. These 1953 photos were part of a spread on the factory in the Richmond Times-Dispatch. Located at 124 Virginia St., with 60 employees, the plant could produce 100 to 120 dozen in an eight-hour day. At the time, the largest hat the company had made was a size 14 -- for the University of Richmond's paper-mâché spider at the school's centennial celebration. Selling under different brand names, the company specialized in supplying retailers all over the U.S.
The Oct. 25, 1953, edition of The Times-Dispatch included a photo spread on the Etchison Hat Co., which started marking its fur felt hats in 1866. Located at 124 Virginia St., the plant could produce 100 to 120 dozen in an eight-hour day. Here, Douglas Britton (left) and George Munson inspected some of the company's production. (At the time, the largest hat the company had made was a size 14 -- for the University of Richmond's papier-mache spider at the school's centennial celebration.)
Staff
The Oct. 25, 1953, edition of The Times-Dispatch included a photo spread on the Etchison Hat Co., which started marking its fur felt hats in 1866. Located at 124 Virginia St., the plant could produce 100 to 120 dozen in an eight-hour day. Here, reed is stitched by machine into specially engraved bands.
Staff
The Oct. 25, 1953, edition of The Times-Dispatch included a photo spread on the Etchison Hat Co., which started marking its fur felt hats in 1866. Located at 124 Virginia St., the plant could produce 100 to 120 dozen in an eight-hour day. Here, a hat body is automatically crown-ironed as it revolves on production machinery.
Staff
Hat Nears Completion When Worker Inserts Lining Under Band [Etchison Hat Company]
Times-Dispatch
James Payne and Parke Goodall Iron Brims [Etchison Hat Company]
Times-Dispatch
Irving Clarkson Restores Color by Dusting [Etchison Hat Company]
Times-Dispatch
Irving Clarkson Restores Color by Dusting [Etchison Hat Company]
