Frances Hewett’s Hat Collection
A recently donated ‘hat collection’, mostly hand-made items by the “Bonnet Box” and worn by the first lady mayor of Hamilton, Frances Hewett, will be on display.
Frances Hewett was born in 1903 and went on to become a councillor on the Hamilton City Council from 1956-1971 and 1974-1977. She served as mayor from 1965-1966 and 1975. She received an MBE in 1975 for her services to the community. This included involvement with the National Trust, Hamilton Art Gallery, Library and a number of concert committees. She died in 1990.
Many older locals have fond memories of Frances Hewett. She was known to always wear a hat in public. These hats were renowned for being original and interesting. The collection was donated by her family only recently and now form part of the history centre museum.