One of the reasons I love Sheffield is the people. The first thing I noticed when I landed as a fresh-faced 18 year old student (away from home for the first time and just a little bit lost!) was how helpful and friendly the folk of Sheffield are. I'm from a small market town where most people know each other, but god forbid you might talk to a stranger on the bus or talk to the person serving you at a till point. Nearly 17 years later and I stand by that first impression.
One of the things that has been really important to me is the history of millinery in Sheffield; the memories people have of visiting hat shops and how even just walking past the windows made them feel. I've always had a fascination and interest in social history and this project has really piqued my interest. This hunt lead me to join a couple of Facebook groups to try and find out more. The shops I have been researching were all open in living memory, just well before I was even a twinkle in the eye of Pa Cooke!
This search lead me to "meet" Andrea King, a font of knowledge about Hillsborough (where I live now) as well as being a jazz singer and a song writer. Andrea has been immensely helpful with information about the key shops I have been trying to research for which I am hugely grateful.
If my belief that the Sheffielders are some of the friendliest people in the world was only strengthened by this interaction with Andrea, she firmly set it in concrete foundations when I received a message today containing this wonderful verse!
Thank you so much Andrea, we are really honoured and we simply can't wait to meet you when we throw open the doors at The Hat Stand on 16th May
For The Hat Stand/Milliners of Sheffield
I have always loved hats, Some people think I am ''Bats"
But you know they suit me so well, I can tell
Cos' folks chat to me and say
That is a lovely hat you are wearing today
''WHERE DID YOU GET THAT HAT''!!!!!
I have to say, Milliners walked my way
With dreams and ideas to glorify ''The Crown''
To match every gown and accessory
They will make you feel fine, as they did for me
So visit ''THE HAT STAND'' in the Winter Gardens this May
In Sheffield come for the day
You are bound to see something, That will make you feel ''Pretty''
''The Hat Stand'' Best Milliners in our City!!!!!
Copyright Andrea King..10-42014
Twitter @akcomposer