It is hard to imagine that a single retail store that began in 1676 and
moved its location once, in 1764, could still be in business today. In
fact, Lock & Co. at #6 St. James Street in London is such a store.
Whitbourn, a relative of the proprietors, writes of the twists and turns
of the shop's history. I found most interesting the story of the advent
of The Bowler Hat (a.k.a. The Derby or The Coke): A game-keeper
customer, William Coke, wanted a hard felt protective riding hat for
safety-sake while chasing poachers in his game preserve. Mr. Lock
accommodated his customer and a great hat was born (see THE MAN IN A
BOWLER HAT in this bibliography). We at The Village Hat Shop also have
hats made in response to customer's designs. Last year we introduced
"The Rock," "The Reggie," and "The Trent" for three of our discerning
clients.
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