Early Tar Hat

Early Tar Hat - Inventory Number:  UNI 170

Ca 1640 - 1710

This tarred hat was formally de-assessed through public auction the Sturbridge Historical Society in the 1980's. Purchased by our gallery from the collection of Adam Coman. The information which accompanied the piece that it dated to the period of 1670-1710. The hat presents in excellent condition with some crazing to the surface from age. Holes are present on the sides of the body for a lanyard or chinstrap. Thought to have been tarred for weather proofing and possible naval usage.

Sturbridge has always been viewed as the "Crossroads of New England" dating back to the 1600s until the present with US Route 20 and Interstate 90 taking travelers from Boston to Oregon while Interstate 84 directs travelers south to Hartford, New Haven and New York State. Sturbridge's residential beginnings date back to the 1730s when 50 homestead lots were given out to interested families based on a decision by the General Court. Part of this decision requested that the new , residents recruit "a learned orthodox minister and lay him out a house lot equal to the other house lots." The name Sturbridge was adopted because ancestors of the first settlers were from Stourbridge which is in Worcestershire, England.

During the Revolutionary War Sturbridge Common, donated by the Saltonstalls "For Publick Use Forever" was a training ground for the local militia with supplies and equipment stored here as well.

Colonel Ebenezer Crafts personally equipped and supplied a company of cavalry for General Washington's Army.

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Inventory Number:  UNI 170