- Red Hat Society Lunch in California - Mikebaird
In the 1980s, Mrs. Sue Ellen Cooper purchased a red fedora hat at a Tucson thrift store. She read a poem penned by Jenny Joseph entitled “Warning” featuring a woman visualizing her coming years of social freedom:
When I am an old woman I shall wear purple
With a red hat which doesn't go, and doesn't suit me.
As Sue Ellen gave copies of this poem and red hats to her friends, soon a circle of friends formed a casual “Red Hat Society” with outings to enjoy tea together. The opening image of "Warning" sprung to life. Red Hat Society Day launched on April 25, 1998. As more women joined, the Red Hat Society members formed local chapters headed by a chapter Queen. Currently over 1 million Red Hatters hail from 29 countries.
Membership
Fullerton, California is the Society’s Headquarters or “Hatquarters.” Founder Sue Ellen Cooper reigns as Exalted Queen Mother. Membership consists of an annual fee for supporting members and chapter Queens. Members not wishing to join a local chapter can join a virtual chapter known as Ruby RedHat’s Ramblers. An on-line community gives Red Hat Sisters opportunities to read news from other Red Hatters, view events, and purchase memorabilia. Benefits of membership include travel deals, and discounts with RHS partners.
The Red Hat Society requires no obligations from its membership. For ladies 50 years plus, the dress code at events calls for a purple outfit and red hat. Members who have not yet reached their first half century are known as Pink Hatters. Dress code includes a lavender outfit and pink hat until the Hatter’s “REDuation.” The Red Hat Society’s official instrument is the kazoo.
Events
Topped with red hats of a variety of shapes and sizes, ladies aged 50 or better look forward to playing "dress up" at social events. In times when responsibilities and cares can overwhelm, a Red Hat Society event may be just the thing to pick up one’s spirits and take joy in female friendship in a celebratory setting.
The Red Hat Society enjoys media coverage at events that can include luncheons, parades and conventions. Red Hatters from around the world take part in the London New Year’s Day Parade. RHS inspired HATS! The Musical, a Las Vegas-style revue.
Publications
Books:
- The Red Hat Society Fun and Friendship After Fifty by Sue Ellen Cooper
- The Red Hat Society’s Laugh Lines by Sue Ellen Cooper
Cookbooks:
- The Red Hat Society Cookbook
- The Red Hat Society Dessert Cookbook Eat Dessert First!
Novels:
- The Red Hat Society’s Acting Their Age by Regina Hale Sutherland. Official Red Hat Society novel.
- The Red Hat Society’s Domestic Goddess by Regina Hale Sutherland. Official Red Hat Society novel.
Sources
"Warning." Jenny Joseph
The Red Hat Society Official Website
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