Authentic antique 19th-century cotton slat sunbonnet, dating approximately to the 1860s–1870s.

Made from a fine blue-green and light-colored checked cotton fabric, the bonnet has a very deep projecting brim constructed with multiple stitched channels containing the original brown pasteboard/cardboard stiffening slats. The slats give the bonnet its distinctive tunnel-like profile and were intended to shade the wearer’s face from the sun.

Behind the structured brim is a gathered crown with a long gathered neck/shoulder curtain. The bonnet has substantial period hand-finishing and utilitarian construction consistent with practical 19th-century sunbonnets.

Approximate measurements:

Opening circumference along fabric edge: 19"

Brim/crown depth: 12"

Bonnet height: 9"

Additional lower neck curtain: approximately 9"

Condition is antique and well-used. There are a couple of holes in the cotton fabric, scattered fraying, wear at seams and gathering points, discoloration/age toning, loose threads, and general age-related textile wear. One worn area exposes the original brown pasteboard stiffener within a brim channel. Please examine all photographs carefully for condition.

The bonnet has not been cleaned, repaired, or restored and is being offered as found. Due to its age and fragile textile construction, it should be considered a collectible/display or study piece rather than wearable clothing.

A wonderful surviving example of practical Victorian-era women’s dress and rural/workwear textile history.