Philadelphia's Historic Hat Factory Celebrates 101 Years

CBS Philadelphia

February 3, 2025

Tucked beneath Interstate 95 in Northeast Philadelphia, the rhythmic hum of sewing machines signals the continuation of a century-old tradition. American Hats LLC, one of the last remaining millinery factories in the United States, is celebrating its 101st anniversary under the leadership of Rev. Georgiette Morgan-Thomas.

Morgan-Thomas, who purchased the historic factory in 2015, has stitched her own legacy into the fabric of the business, which was originally the home of S&S Hat Company. Her career before millinery spanned social work, community activism, and ministry, including efforts to curb gun violence in New York City.

"I was a civil rights activist, Morgan-Thomas said. "And so I've just had a real full life." Yet through it all, one passion remained constant: her love of hats.

CBS Philadelphia

CBS Philadelphia

CBS Philadelphia

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