The New Yorker, June 17, 1933 P. 6
40 years ago when Max Fluegelman apprentice of 14, more than 500 silk-hat makers in New York. Now about 20 in entire country, 15 of these work for Fluegelman who is head man of silk-hat world. I.S. Wyatt, one of hatters in shop at 848 Sixth Ave. is 80, still good worker. Top hat business going down since 90s, Last year to stip up trade Fluegelman went to City Hall and gave topper to first June groom. Got modest mention, but annoyed all summer by Tammany men wanting free hats. This year gave free hat to Alex Freirich, June groom, but got no publicity. Has made silk hat for every President since Theodore Roosevelt. Made his inaugural hat. Tells about conform measure When Franklin Roosevelt saw it said he would wear soft hat for inauguration, but Fluegelman firm. Two Roosevelts only Presidents Fluegelman saw. Secretaries of all Presidents except one wrote thank you letters. Coolidge wrote own. Biggest head Taft's 7 3/4 oversize, smallest Coolidge's 7 1/8. Wilson 7 1/4, Hoower 7 1/2; Harding and two Roosevelts 7 3/8. Theodore and Franklin Roosevelts heads pear shape. Other Pres. ovals, except Wilson who leaned toward pear-shaped. Wilson's hat too big when got it and had to be altered. Wilson remarked that Presidents' heads got smaller after election, not bigger. Fluegelman made old stovepipe style for Oscar Hammerstein. David Warfield bought felts. Thinks autos responsible poor silk hat trade.
