My inherited top hat labeled “Geo H Burnham, Hatter, Lawrence, Mass.” likely dates back to the late 19th century. George H. Burnham, born on August 21, 1850, in Dover, New Hampshire, was a hatter by profession in Lawrence, Massachusetts. He passed away on May 9, 1889, at the age of 38.
During the 19th century, Lawrence was a burgeoning industrial city, and hat-making was a significant trade. Owning a top hat from this era, especially one crafted by a local hatter like George H. Burnham, offers a tangible connection to the fashion and craftsmanship of that time.