If you do a search for "origin of cowboy hat," this photo shows up in several places. The finely dressed gentleman is not identified in any of them, however. The hat is a straw type known as a planter's hat, and it is widely recognized as a precursor to many cowboy styles which followed.
This handsome and well-dressed fellow could have stepped right out of a modern Western film. He looks like Martin Sheen.
ReplyDeleteNow that you mention it . . .
DeleteVery similar to hats worn by CSA officers-Dee Exx
ReplyDeleteMany CSA officers were planters, so . . .
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