Historical information

A hat pin is a decorative pin for holding a hat to the head. During the 1880s, bonnets gave way to hats, and the popularity of hatpins soared. They remained a standard women's accessory through the 1910s and were produced in a vast range of materials and types. They were typically around 20 cm in length, with the pinhead being the most decorated part. In some countries they were viewed as a potentially dangerous weapon which could be used by women in self-defence, so regulations were introduced to limit the length allowed. These hat pins were used c1900.

Significance

This item is from the Raper Collection donated to the Wodonga Historical Society by Mrs. Jean Raper.

Physical description

A pair of simple hat pins with faux silver ball shaped head.