Hat, Top
Object number2007.2.1
Manufacturer
Gusky Department Store
Datec. 1890
OriginPittsburgh, PA
MediumFelt; leather
Credit LineGift of Mr. and Mrs. Art Weixel
DescriptionTop hat with high crown and slightly curled brim. Black felt; black grosgrain ribbon brim trim and band, which has a ribbon buckle on proper left side.Dimensions7 x 7.5 x 6.25 x 11 in. (17.8 x 19.1 x 15.9 x 27.9 cm)InscriptionsInside hat has handwritten text on top and side: "...WEIXEL".
MarksStamp inside hat: "The / Clydehat / Master Quality / Do...[illegible]".
Inside of top hat has gold printed label "GUSKY'S / [circle with image of unicorn] PITTSBURGH".
Historical NotesTop hat worn by Joseph Weixel (1827-1921), who was born in Bavaria, Germany. When he was nine years old, his family came to America, traveling to Pittsburgh in a Conestoga wagon. They lived in Sligo--today known as the South Side--where Joseph was employed at the Lyon, Shorb & Company iron works. Active in the formation of several Catholic churches, Weixel was a charter member of St. Philomena's in the Strip District, and it was there that he married Caroline Letzkus (d. 1907) in 1850. The couple lived on Cooper Ave. in Allegheny County and had 12 children. The top hat bears a label from Gusky's Department Store. Founded by Jewish immigrant Jacob Gusky, the store was located on Market Street in Allegheny County from c. 1881-1904.
Previous owner
Joseph Weixel
(1827 - 1921)
Related institution
Lyon, Shorb and Company
Related person
Caroline Letzkus
(died 1907)
Related institution
St. Philomena's Church
On View
On viewCollections
M. G. Kuntz
Ruth's Hat Shop
Kaufmann's Department Store