1874 Expedition

A tall-crowned top hat inspired by the spirit of the 1874 Black Hills expedition.

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1874 Expedition

The 1874 Expedition reflects Dusty’s long-standing love of top hats and draws its name from the 1874 expedition into the Black Hills and the gold rush that followed. Hand-shaped in Dusty’s Sturgis, South Dakota studio, the design features a 5-inch crown, 2½-inch unbound brim, wide velvet ribbon hatband, and Dusty’s individually assembled feather embellishment. The tall crown and sweeping brim give the hat a distinctive silhouette rooted in the history of the classic top hat while carrying Dusty’s own Western character. The 1874 Expedition can be commissioned in different fur qualities, colors, hatbands, and finishing details. Each feather arrangement is created individually, so every interpretation retains its own character while remaining recognizable as the 1874 Expedition design.

Dusty Kirk

Founder & Hatmaker

At a Glance

Crown Style:

Top hat

Brim Style:

2½" hand-shaped, unbound

Primary Material:

Fur / fur blend

Primary Color:

Gold (pictured)

Accent Colors:

Black

Finish:

Hand-shaped

Collection:

About This Collection

The Black Hills have always been a place where rugged landscapes, rich history, and quiet beauty come together. This collection draws inspiration from the region's forests, prairies, granite peaks, and the people who have called these hills home. Each Original reflects a different facet of that spirit while remaining unmistakably one of a kind.

Begin With a Conversation

Every Original begins with a conversation. Together, you’ll shape a one-of-a-kind hat around your story, style, and the way you intend to wear it.

Share what inspires you, how you imagine wearing your Original, or simply the feeling you want it to carry. You don't need to have every detail decided before reaching out.

Timeline

Typically 8–12 weeks, depending on design complexity, material availability, and Dusty's current schedule.

Investment

Every Original receives a personalized quote based on its design, materials, and handcrafted details.

Materials

Premium felt, ribbon, leather, feathers, and vintage elements are thoughtfully selected for every commission.

From the Atelier

Discover More Originals

Explore other handcrafted pieces from the Atelier, each shaped by its own story, materials, and defining details.

Sunset Gus

Inspired by a horse that wasn't headed for Hollywood.

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The Provenance

A legacy in color, shaped once and never repeated.

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The Low Crown Legacy

The Low Crown Legacy from the Heritage Collection Side Profile

Lowered in front. Elevated in character.

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Your Story Starts Here.

Every Original begins with a conversation.

No two commissions are alike because no two stories are alike. Whether you're honoring a milestone, preserving a legacy, or creating something entirely your own, Dusty will work alongside you to craft a hat that reflects who you are—and is made to be worn for generations.