I am particularly fascinated by straw bonnets and the straw bonnet industry. The bonnets themselves for me are a beautiful combination of nature and art. Each bonnet is plaited, woven, crocheted, sewn or a combination of these to create a well curving base for a stunning array of embellishments. The industry held a unique niche in the ever changing industrialization of the nineteenth century, as the straw bonnet industry combined cottage industry with commercial industrialization. In my booklet, From Field to Fashion: Straw Bonnets, I look at the history of straw bonnets, the industry and the process for making bonnets.
You will find in my blog posts a variety of information about straw millinery. In the Millinery/Bonnets/Ribbon category, you will find posts related to straw bonnets including “A Closer Look at Straw Plait”, “Straw Bonnet Fashion Descriptions” and additional bonnet related information. You may also be interested in the Anatomy of a Bonnet pdf file.
The previous list of extant straw bonnets is replaced with this board on Pinterest.
Some years ago, I was asked to Review the Period Impressions’ Straw Bonnet Pattern
If I Had My Own Blue Box: 
How old did you have to be to wear the straw bonnet during the civil war? The dress one like a spoon bonnet.
Hi Pam,
There are straw bonnets for children through the mid-19th century.
Dear Anna,
I am very interested to learn more about the history and construction of straw bonnets and hope you can contact me regarding your book, ‘From Field to Fashion’ I would like to buy a copy if possible.
Best Wishes
Vicky Potter
Fascinating web site. Thrilled to be a part of it.