Welcome to the Straw Hats and Bonnets Tour! Head coverings have been around for nearly as long as people have been on this earth. Hats have been worn throughout the centuries for many of the same reasons they are worn today: Protection from heat and cold, decoration, religious belief and ceremonial rites. People have long used the materials that they have around them. For many cultures of grain growers, this meant an abundance of straw. Straw was used not only for feeding stock and stuffing mattresses, but in personal attire as well. In other sections of this site, you will see items made of straw like rain capes, shoes, and lace trimmings for clothing. This tour will guide you through some of the Straw Hats and Bonnets in our collection. All information, photographs and other artwork contained in this site are Copyrighted by The American Museum of Straw Art. Reproduction of any material is prohibited without prior written permission.