Charleston Hat Man

At the corner of Broad and Church Streets in Charleston, South Carolina, a wall painting has been frightening Charleston's children since the late 19th century.  It depicts a larger-than-life-sized man whose body is composed entirely of headwear.

 The stone and stucco building at 43-47 Broad Street in downtown Charleston was built by saddlers Charles Love and Conrad M. Wienges in 1855.  They sold the property to Charles Plenge in 1870.  Plenge, a tailor, converted the establishment into a haberdashery, selling men's clothing, shoes, and accessories, including hats.  The painting is believed to have been created in 1892, as an advertisement for the business.  It was even featured on an old trade card, entitled "The Plenge Hat Man."

 In 1910, the building passed into the hands of Beauregard Betancourt, who had worked there since 1872.  Well known for his caricature drawings, Betancourt is suspected of having created the signage while employed by Plenge.  However, the artist's identity remains unknown.   

The Hat Man is composed of 16 hats in 12 different styles – bowlers, top hats, caps, and even sailors' hats with streamers.  Close examination reveals that he is all hats – except for his cane and umbrella.  The hats depicted are believed to represent the types of headgear worn by Union and Confederate soldiers during the American Civil War. 

By 1999, the mural had almost faded into nonexistence, but it was restored by a local artist in 2001.  Although the building no longer houses a men's store, the city of Charleston maintains the painting as an iconic city landmark.  

The Hat Man's rather frightening appearance is the stuff of Charleston lore.  Legend has it that you must tip your hat to him to avoid him following you home.  And recalcitrant children who won't go to bed on time are warned that the Charleston Hat Man will drag them into his wall.