Shaker Bonnet Circa 1840. This hat is the traditional style of the shaker bonnet that was popular in the begining of the Shaker movement in Eastern USA. It is possible that this particular bonnet is from a later period, but the age and patina of the plait is more typical of the earlier time frame. Additionally, the thread that ties the plaits in place appear to be from an earlier era. Notice how fine the braiding is. The braid is woven of seven 'splits' of straw. Each straw is split into several lengthwise pieces. A single straw may be split into anywhere from 3 to 7, or possibly more lengths depending on the fineness necessary for the intended weave. The finished braid in this bonnet is about 1/4 of an inch wide. 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. This site designed and developed for The American Museum of Straw Art by Christy's Web Creations