Jack Ruby's grey fedora

Object number2009.032.0001

Datecirca 1960

ClassificationsArtifacts

ObjectHat

Credit LineThe Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza Collection

MediumCloth

DimensionsOuter: 5 x 9 3/4 x 11 3/4 in. (12.7 x 24.8 x 29.8 cm)
Inner: 3 1/2 x 6 3/8 x 8 in. (8.9 x 16.2 x 20.3 cm)

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Collections

DescriptionGrey fedora, worn by Jack Ruby on November 24, 1963 when he shot accused assassin Lee Harvey Oswald on live television in the basement of the Dallas Police Department. Grey felt fedora decorated with a wide black grosgrain ribbon hat band with a flat bow on the left side. Hat has been pinched at the top front and has a flexible brim. The front of the brim was pulled down; the back of the brim curls up. Inside, the hat is lined in ivory silk and is printed with "Cavanagh", "Cavanagh Hats New York" and the Cavanagh emblem. Inner band of hat is lined in brown leather and has three gold stamps: "Jas. K. Wilson / Dallas" on one side, "Cavanagh Edge" in the center front, and "Jack Ruby" on the other side. A paper price tag tucked inside the inner hat band lists the price as $16.50.