On October 21 at 6:30 p.m., the Cowee School Arts & Heritage Center series, “Where We Live: History, Nature, and Culture” will present a program by Teresa Bouchonnet on “The Cultural Significance of Millinery as a Women’s Profession in WNC”. 

Hat-making was more than just a craft; it allowed women to express their creativity and contribute to their households.  The skills required for millinery were often taught within families. Teresa is a native of Macon County.  Her Grandmother Allen & her mother both made their own hats using material to coordinate their church outfits like many women of that period.

 A variety of hats showing different periods and styles including wooden hat blocks used to make hats will be displayed. Teresa will also give a tour of her studio, Cowee Textiles/Cowee Millinery, after the talk, for anyone interested in seeing items she uses to create her one-of-a-kind hats. Her studio has been located at the Cowee School Arts & Heritage Center since 2013.  She is a fourth-generation textile artist accomplished in many styles including millinery/hat making. She has just returned from an international Millinery Meet-Up with hat makers from all over the world.  Hats are making a bold return per Harper’s Bazaar June/July 2024 issue.

This tradition of hat-making is a testament to the resourcefulness and creativity of the women in WNC, reflecting a broader narrative of resilience and ingenuity in Appalachian culture.

You are invited to bring examples of old hats to add to the display in the gym.

The program will be held at Cowee School Arts and Heritage Center at 51 Cowee School Drive in Franklin at 6:30 pm. The series is designed to give people an opportunity to learn more about our local area, from many different angles, and to enjoy a pleasant, informative evening together. Come join us!