EDMONTON – The Speaker of Alberta’s Legislative Assembly wears many hats in his role, and Speaker Nathan Cooper has taken that sentiment one step further, quite literally, in his recent collaboration with Smithbilt Hats Inc.
Through the collaboration came a new, and distinctly Albertan, western tricorn hat that blends the traditional tricorn with a cattleman’s crown and brim.
“It was important that we created a made-in-Alberta tricorn hat that represents both the Speaker’s traditional role as a representative of the people and the western roots of our province which intertwines the history of ranching, farming and rodeo cultures,” said Speaker Cooper. “Who better to craft such a significant symbol than an Alberta company that has been crafting iconic hats in our province for nearly as long as we have been a province.”
Operating since 1919, Smithbilt is perhaps best known for its iconic white cowboy hat which has become a symbol of Calgary and is often gifted to visiting dignitaries as a symbol of hospitality.
In Canada, the tricorn hat is a part of the ceremonial dress worn by Speakers both in federal parliament as well as most provincial legislatures. In Alberta, the tradition dates back to the early 20th century, aligning with the establishment of the Alberta Legislature itself. The hat, along with other ceremonial attire, distinguishes the Speaker and is said to symbolize the authority and neutrality of the position.
“Some say the three sides of the tricorn represent the three branches of government: the legislative branch that makes the laws; the judicial branch that interprets the laws; and the executive branch that administers the laws,” said Cooper. “It is my hope that this new western tricorn becomes a part of the long-standing traditions of the Assembly.”
The tricorn style of hat first became popular in the 17th and 18th centuries. Members of the military in Europe wore the broad-brimmed hats pinned up to shape a triangle as it allowed soldiers to hold their muskets without hitting the brims of their hats. Another practical purpose for military use was protection from the weather as the laces once used to pin the hat in place were loosened so that the brims could shield soldiers from the sun and rain.
The tricorn hat is an iconic style that is instantly recognizable and became popular in civilian life in the 18th century. It was worn by aristocrats and civilians alike. Speakers originally wore it to align with the trends of the time and as a reminder that they and all elected officials were first and foremost representatives of the people.
Speaker Cooper introduced the new western-style tricorn in the Legislative Assembly of Alberta on April 29, 2025.
“I am so grateful to Smithbilt Hats for creating something so special, and uniquely Albertan that blends the ceremonial traditions of the Speaker’s attire with the connections between the Assembly and the people of Alberta,” said Cooper.
- 30 -
Media inquiries:
Rhonda Sorensen, Manager
Communications Services
Legislative Assembly of Alberta
rhonda.sorensen@assembly.ab.ca