In 1944 sales of panama hats reached its peak, becoming the number one export product of Ecuador due to the decrease of cocoa.

But without doubt one of the main reasons why the sales have increased was the golden age of Hollywood. Was at this period of time that many film-stars used the then called Panama Hat (because it was thought that came from that country) inside and outside of the screen more popular usage of the accessory.

The Panama Hat,was the protagonist in the costumes of some of the most famous films of that era and today are classified as treasures of cinema.

And if we talk of naming starrings, the role that the hat did in the movie Gone with the Wind, was one of the best work.  But the action it took in Casablanca and Key Largo is also worthy of applause.

Modesta Chavez, a 68 year old Ecuadorian. She says ”Today I sell crafts, but spendseveral years of my life to weave straw hats, is a beautiful work, I age and is more tired,my back hurts, hands and views.”

Want to tell us your name?
Modesta
How old are you? 68
A Country of birth?
Ecuador
¿Location?
Montecristi, Manabi, Ecuador.
How long have you started with this hobby?
from young
Tell us how you started?
From a young age and then with my husband. Now I only sell crafts and when some one makes a special request I weave a hat. But I teach this art to my children.
What weaving means to you?
It was my way of life for some years. It is a hard work full of taste, which requires a lot of energy and detail.
Want to tell us something about your life?

I am a mother of four children, and I am proud that the best hat in the world is of Montecristi, because although it is not much try to do the same. The design here is unique, handmade and special treatment.

An article published in the journal The Agro called “Sombreros de Montecristi o Panamá Hats“, describes a beautiful reality but hard at the same time.

It is true that the most famous straw hat of the world is the product of painstaking Ecuadorian hands and raw material obtained from the east coast and mountains of Ecuador. However, it is known as Panama or Panama Hats.

I was saying that it is a really great and beautiful reality. Yes! The quality of this product has grown to fame and recognition unique in the world. And it belongs to us and them. Humble artisans work-spinning the dreams forged shawl, which back bent shape life. So it is our people with guts and determination.

Also added, is a harsh reality because the ecuadorian work is named as “Panama”. But then everything falls under its own weight. It has been released today and little by little it is known the Panama Hats are Ecuadorian.

» Read more: The famous hat “Panama Hats” is Ecuadorian