Panama hat of the first towns to start weaving the hats in the Andes is Principal, part of the Chordeleg Canton in the Azuay province. Straw hats woven in Ecuador, like many other 19th and early 20th century South American goods, were shipped first to the Isthmus of Panama before sailing for their destinations in Asia, the rest of the Americas and Europe, subsequently acquiring a name that reflected their point of international sale—"panama hats"—rather than their place of domestic origin. The term was being used by at least 1834. The popularity of the hats increased in the mid-19th century when many
Hats Off for Cancer receiving hats contact the President or National Hat Drive Coordinator. The hats collected through donations or hat drives are then distributed to hospitals, camps, and organizations worldwide. Hats Off for Cancer has received awards including: • Home Depot Hometown Hero 2009 • Charming Shoppes' Voices 2006 Award • New Jersey Joint Resolution for Prudential Spirit of Community Award • Hunterdon County Board of Chosen Freeholders Commendation • New Jersey Woman's Business Award • Youth Advocate of the Year Award – American Cancer Society • Youth Advisory Council Award • USAA National Volunteer Service Award Hats Off for Cancer Hats Off