St. Louis has always been a city of makers, and its history in the fashion industry is no exception. From the late 19th century through the end of World War II, St. Louis was a powerhouse of garment manufacturing, second only to New York in influence and output. Among the local legends of that era, the Bertha Hat Company stands out as a symbol of creativity, craftsmanship and community.
The history of the Bertha Hat Company was compiled using the Jewish Light’s archives and the 2018 obituary of Sam Heyman, a member of the Haas family. Heyman, who worked at the company, helped preserve its legacy by sharing its history with the community. Additional research from the Missouri Historical Society provided further insight into the company’s role in St. Louis’ millinery and Jewish community.
Bertha Hat Company
Housed in the historic Haas Building at 410 North Jefferson Ave., the Bertha Hat Company didn’t just make hats—it created a legacy. This family business traces its origins to German immigrant Elias Haas, who founded the Samuel Haas Trimmed Hat Company in 1875. Over the decades, the company evolved under the leadership of Elias’ descendants, particularly his son Samuel Haas, who became a key figure in growing the business and cementing its place in St. Louis history.
In 1924, the company took on the name Bertha Hat Company, likely honoring Bertha Rischert, who served as its vice president until her passing in 1931, and possibly also Elias’ daughter, Bertha. By this time, the company was thriving, shipping women’s hats across the country and making St. Louis a go-to hub for high-quality millinery.
The Haas Building itself, designed in 1922 by architect Jacob M. Hirshstein, became a landmark of St. Louis industry. With its brick and limestone facade, the building housed not only the Bertha Hat Company but also other businesses that helped define the city’s fashion scene. Today, the building is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, a testament to its significance in the city’s industrial and architectural history.
The Bertha Hat Company operated until 1977, leaving a lasting impact on St. Louis’ Jewish community and fashion industry through Samuel Haas’ leadership and the family’s dedication to craftsmanship.
Studio portraits of women modeling Bertha Hat Company hats. All photos courtesy of MHS Photographs and Prints Collection
