History Alive! Geo. Franks, Hatter, Authentically Recreated Historical Hats

Join George Franks as he demonstrates the craft of making historically accurate hats from the colonial period (1701–1799). You'll watch him handcraft round-blocked hats using wool felt and fur, with every pattern, method, and material faithful to the era. All stitching is done by hand. Franks is deeply involved in living history circles—he's a former officer and governor of the Company of Military Historians and remains active with the Brigade of the American Revolution. This event is part of History Alive! at Fort Ligonier, an educational program that brings 18th-century frontier life to visitors through daily demonstrations and activities. You'll see what daily life looked like at this military outpost during the Forbes Campaign of 1758, including soldiering, labor, tailoring, cooking, and other period crafts. It's a great way for families to learn hands-on history. Regular admission to Fort Ligonier applies.