[McClung Museum] [Object of the Month]

        EARLY TENNESSEE SUN BONNETS

        (July 1998)

        [Sun Bonnet]
        TENNESSEE WOMAN WEARING HER SUN BONNET.
        Circa 1930s.
        Photo courtesy of L.W. Hine Collection (#H-183), Tennessee Valley Authority Archives

        DESCRIPTION

        Sun bonnets had soft full crowns, a deep flexible brim, and a shoulder cape that was tied at the base of the crown with a bow. Sometimes the popular bonnets had cardboard inserts to stiffen the brim and two ties attached inside the brim for additional security during windy days. Some were made of gaily printed calico, percale, or chambray. Indigo blue cloth with white polka dots was also popular.

        This head covering was very practical for working out of doors, particularly in the sun.

        Children wore sun bonnets, too.

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