Origins of the Panama Hat

Exploring the Origins of the Panama Hat: An Intriguing Tale

Did you know that the famed Panama hat did not, in fact, originate in Panama! 

Why is it called a Panama hat?

Let’s delve into the intriguing history behind this misnomer.

Our journey takes us back to a pivotal moment in history when Theodore Roosevelt, the first U.S. president to venture beyond the country’s borders, made a noteworthy trip to Panama during the construction of the Panama Canal. A captivating photograph captured Roosevelt perched atop a construction crane, adorned with a traditional hat from Ecuador. Surprisingly, this iconic headwear became forever intertwined with Panama, eclipsing its true Ecuadorian roots.

Yes, I purchased one of these iconic hats during my first trip to Panama.