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Exceptional vintage Stetson 7X Clear Beaver Quality Western hat in a light tan / silverbelly-type color.
The interior retains extensive original markings, including:
- XXXXXXX STETSON
- Clear Beaver Quality
- John B. Stetson Company
- Shudde Bros. – Houston
- Size 7 1/4
- Brim Width: Approximately 3 inches measured from the crown to the outer edge of the brim.
- Personalized “GEORGE R. SCHOEDINGER, SR.”
The hat retains its original-style leather sweatband, satin lining, Stetson branding and narrow matching hat cord.
George R. Schoedinger Sr. provenance
The personalized sweatband is gilt stamped:
GEORGE R. SCHOEDINGER, SR.
Research strongly indicates this refers to George Richard Schoedinger Sr. (1884–1961) of Columbus, Ohio, a third-generation funeral director and president of the historic Schoedinger & Co. family business.
Historical records identify George R. Schoedinger Sr. as a prominent member of the Columbus business community. He also served as 1950 president of National Selected Morticians, the organization now known as Selected Independent Funeral Homes.
The apparent mid-century dating of the hat is consistent with Schoedinger's lifetime.
Please note: This attribution is based upon the full personalized name found inside the hat together with corresponding historical records. No separate original purchase receipt or family provenance accompanies the hat.
Hat Details
- Maker: John B. Stetson
- Grade: 7X / XXXXXXX Clear Beaver Quality
- Size: 7 1/4
- Retailer: Shudde Bros., Houston
- Personalized to: George R. Schoedinger, Sr.
- Material: Beaver-felt blend / Clear Beaver Quality felt
- Color: Light tan / beige / silverbelly
- Style: Western / Cowboy
- Vintage: Yes
- Approximate era: 1950s–early 1960s
- Made in USA
Included Hat Box
Includes the pictured vintage Golden Coach by Dobbs octagonal hat box.
The Dobbs box is not original to the Stetson hat and is included as a vintage storage/display box. It shows age-related wear, creasing and handling marks.
Condition
The hat is remarkably presentable for its age. Felt remains clean and well shaped with light age/use wear. Interior leather sweatband and gilt markings remain attractive and legible. Liner shows expected age-related discoloration and wear.
Please examine all photographs carefully, especially the interior markings, personalized name, size tag, liner and included hat box. Photos are part of the description.
An outstanding example for collectors of vintage Stetson hats, 7X Clear Beaver Stetsons, Western wear, Shudde Bros. memorabilia, Texas hat history or Columbus, Ohio historical material.
