The Sou’wester
This very distinctive waterproof hat, known as a sou'wester, was first recorded 1837 as being used by fishermen in the harbour of Gloucester, Massachusetts. The fishermen invented a hat that kept them dry especially when fishing out on the Grand Banks. The name stems from the fact that bad weather across the Grand Banks came from northwest, and to keep their faces dry they had to look southwest.
The Cape Ann sou’wester, c. 1880 (x)
The original sou'wester was made of sailcloth and was painted with yellow linen oil. The hat was cut very long at the neck and lay over the collar to prevent the water from running down the neck. The narrow brim in the front served as a gutter to drain away the water.
An “old salt” from the fishing industry wearing oilskins and a sou’wester (x)
This design was so successful that it spread worldwide and is still worn today. However, today’s models are made of PVC lined with fleece and have ear flaps to keep the wearer warm.
