Garland, TX – Downtown Garland has received a Texas-sized upgrade with the unveiling of a massive cowboy hat installation that celebrates the city’s rich hat-making history. Measuring 20 feet long, 16 feet wide, and 6 feet tall, Garland’s Big Hat was officially revealed over the weekend during a festive “Hats Off Salute.” This impressive structure honors the craftsmanship that has made Garland a hub for hat production since 1938, featuring renowned brands like Resistol and Stetson, which have created hats worn by iconic figures ranging from actors to presidents.
In an exclusive interview leading up to the unveiling, Amy Rosenthal, the Cultural Arts Director for the City of Garland, shared insights about the project. “It’s completely an attraction. A lot of people don’t know that we are the hat capital of Texas,” she explained. “If you have a Resistol or a Stetson or a Justin hat, it was most likely made right here in Garland, Texas. Garland’s history is incredible, and I am so thrilled that we’re able to honor that history with a fun, whimsical, and unique sculpture in our downtown.”
The Big Hat installation was a collaborative effort involving several city organizations and local hat manufacturers. Key contributors include Becky King, the Managing Director of the Office of Neighborhood Vitality, and members of the Garland Cultural Arts Commission. Together, they conceptualized and brought the giant hat to life, consulting with local hat makers for authentic designs.
The hat itself is not only a striking visual landmark but also an embodiment of Garland’s creative spirit. “According to our research, this is the biggest cowboy hat in Texas,” Rosenthal noted. “It’s bigger than the famous disco hat in Sundance Square and even larger than the Stetson atop the Eiffel Tower in Paris, Texas.”
In addition to being a fun photo opportunity, the installation will feature unique signature elements, including a hot iron brand that incorporates the letters “G” and “TX,” allowing visitors to personalize their own hats. Rosenthal expressed excitement about the possibility of creating a line of hats that visitors could purchase, further connecting them to Garland’s hat-making legacy.
The Big Hat also aims to enhance downtown Garland’s appeal as an entertainment district. “It’s not just a daytime attraction; it will be illuminated at night with LED lights that mimic the neon look,” Rosenthal explained. “This will reinforce our destination as an entertainment district and draw people out in the evenings.”
Hats Off to Garland at the Landmark Museum
Rosenthal walked me over to the Landmark Museum, where we explored the “Hats Off to Garland” exhibit featuring unique hat history, collectibles, and stories of notable public figures who have donned hats made in Garland. The exhibit showcases the city’s hat legacy, emphasizing its importance to Garland’s cultural identity.
The “Hats Off to Garland” exhibit at the Landmark Museum will run through February 28, offering a deeper dive into the city’s hat-making history and featuring hats worn by notable figures, including Beyoncé and George Strait. Rosenthal highlighted the importance of preserving this legacy, stating, “There is a long, really amazing hat history in Garland, and we want people to understand that this isn’t just something we’re making up.”
With the new Big Hat installation, Garland continues to celebrate its unique heritage while inviting residents and visitors alike to experience its vibrant culture.
