I was reading Connections by James Burke and came across this reference to William Murdock and his wooden hat. Obviously I've been trying to find out more but all I've uncovered so far is that it was oval and he made it himself on a lathe.
The description below adds flavour but nothing to the basic facts:
During the brief conversation that took place, the blate young Scotchman, like most country lads in the presence of strangers, had some difficulty in knowing what to do with his hands, and unconsciously kept twirling his hat with them. Boulton's attention was attracted to the twirling hat, which seemed to be of a peculiar make. It was not a felt hat, nor a cloth hat, nor a glazed hat: but it seemed to be painted, and composed of some unusual material. "That seems to be a curious sort of hat," said Boulton, looking at it more closely; "what is it made of?" "Timmer, sir," said Murdock, modestly. "Timmer? Do you mean to say that it is made of wood?" "'Deed it is, sir." "And pray how was it made?" "I made it mysel, sir, in a bit laithey of my own contrivin'." "Indeed!"
Boulton looked at the
young
man again. He had risen a hundred degrees in his estimation. William
was a
good-looking fellow--tall, strong, and handsome--with an open
intelligent
countenance. Besides, he had been able to turn a hat for himself
with a
lathe of his own construction. This, of itself, was a sufficient
proof that
he was a mechanic of no mean skill. "Well!" said Boulton, at last,
"I will
enquire at the works, and see if there is anything we can set you
to. Call
again, my man." "Thank you, sir," said Murdock, giving a final twirl
to his
hat.
Obviously, as soon as I know more I'll let you know.
According to some people who should know, there is no visual reference remaining of the hat in question.