Bonnet Sculpture
There were numerous hat factories in Dunstable and the heritage trail leaflet produced in c.2009 is probably the best source of information about the hat industry in Dunstable. As detailed on the Town Council website, by the 19th Century Priory House was owned by the Munt family. They built a hat factory which occupied the site of the present gateway from High Street South. There were numerous other hat factories along High Street South and High Street North. Queen Victoria had a straw bonnet, which she called her ‘Dunstable’.
The sculpture has been placed in this location due to its proximity to the Coopers Hat Factory on Manchester Place.
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The concept behind the wooden sculptures
The inspiration came from recognising notable historical significances in Dunstable as part of the High Street Heritage Action Zone (HSHAZ) scheme. Crafted entirely from English oak, the sculptures were created using wood sourced from various locations, including Leicestershire, Nottinghamshire, and a golf course near Southampton. The wood used was from trees that had been cut down as part of general land management. Dunstable Town Council commissioned sculpturer Peter Leadbeater who brought the historical vision to life.
Thanks to funding from Historic England Dunstable HSHAZ scheme and the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) through Central Bedfordshire Council (CBC) for making this project possible.