There was a time that Danbury Connecticut was known as the "Hat City of the World" and to commemorate this era, the city has installed this monument. It reads, "Dedicated to the hardworking men and women of the hatting industry who provided a solid foundation for future generations of The Hat City to prosper." It indicates it was dedicated on June 20, 2016 and was funded by the City of Danbury and Union Savings Bank. The artist is David Boyajiah.
Zadoc Benedict developed a method for making felt out of animal furs in the late 18th century, which he then shaped into hats. He established a modest hat-making business here, where other hatters quickly joined him. They produced hats made of wool and silk in addition to felt. The city's industry quickly experienced a boom. Danbury was referred regarded as the "Hat City of the World" from the 1850s to the conclusion of World War II.
Unfortunately, the city also developed a reputation for the "Danbury Shakes," a physical and neurological ailment affecting factory workers. Chronic exposure to the mercury used in hat manufacturing was to blame for this. Mercury use in the hatting process was outlawed in 1941 as a result of research done in the 1920s and ferocious union objections.
The marker is in front of the Danbury City Hall where there is parking.
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