Beginnings
Panama hats are well-suited to tropical climates because of their ability to block sun but allow air circulation. The indigenous people of Ecuador have been weaving hats from the straw of the so-called Panama palm for hundreds of years.
Name Origins
During the gold rush of 1849, Panama hats became popular with prospectors in California. The hats they imported from Ecuador were shipped through Panama and the product came to become popularly known as the Panama hat.
Collapse of the Trade
By the beginning of World War II, more than 200,000 Ecuadorans were employed in the hat trade, but after the war, cheaper versions made in China came onto the market and the Ecuadoran hat trade collapsed.
Quality Prevailed
Handmade Panama hats made in Ecuador are distinguished not only by the quality of the straw known as paja toquilla, but also by the intricate signature patterns woven into the crowns. The best quality Panama hats fetch prices in the thousands of dollars.
The Industry Today
While far fewer Ecuadorans are employed in the hat industry today than in the past, the Ecuadoran government is lending its support to see to it that Panama hats find a market in the rest of the world. Exports of Panama hats have been steadily increasing as a result.
About The Author
Lois Lawrence is an attorney and freelance writer living and working in Stonington, Conn. She has written on many subjects including travel, food, consumerism, relationships, insurance and law. Lawrence earned a Bachelor of Arts in economics from the University of Massachusetts at Amherst in 1976, and a Juris Doctor degree from Boston University School of Law in 1979.
Photo Credits
Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Mauren Veras
