The Superstition of Placing a Cowboy Hat on a Bed
For generations, cowboys and those in the American West have adhered to the superstition that it is bad luck to place your cowboy hat on a bed. This longstanding belief has deep roots in cowboy culture and folklore.
Why Can't Cowboys Put Hat On Bed?
Cowboys can't put their hats on beds because it is a long-standing superstition in cowboy culture, with various origins such as the association with coffins and death, the belief that evil spirits reside in hair, and the practical concern of spreading head lice, and it is considered bad luck that could negatively impact their lives and performance.
The Origins of the Superstition
One of the most commonly cited origins of this superstition is the association between hats and coffins. In the past, it was common practice to place a person's hat on top of their coffin during a funeral. As a result, many came to believe that putting a hat on a bed was an ominous sign, potentially conjuring up images of death and bad fortune.
Another theory suggests that this superstition stems from the belief that evil spirits or "little devils" resided in a person's hair. When a hat was removed, these spirits would be released, and placing the hat on a bed was seen as an invitation for them to wreak havoc.
A more practical explanation is that this custom arose from the fact that many cowboys in the past had issues with head lice, especially since regular bathing was not always possible during long cattle drives. Keeping hats off the bed helped prevent the spread of these parasites to others.
The Significance in Cowboy Culture
Regardless of the exact origin, the superstition has become deeply ingrained in cowboy culture. Many rodeo athletes, for example, strictly avoid placing their hats on beds, believing it will bring them bad luck and negatively impact their performance.
The proper etiquette, according to cowboy tradition, is to either hang the hat or place it upside-down on its crown when not in use. This is believed to help maintain the hat's shape and "catch" any good luck that may be floating around.
Cowboy Hat Etiquette
In addition to the superstition about placing hats on beds, there are other important aspects of cowboy hat etiquette. For instance, cowboys are advised to never touch or try on another person's hat, as this is considered a fighting offense. The hat is seen as an extension of the individual's personality and identity, and interfering with it is a serious breach of cowboy etiquette.
Other hat-related customs include
Tipping your hat to greet someone or show respect
Removing your hat when entering a building, especially a church or someone's home
Holding your hat over your heart during the national anthem or a funeral procession
The Enduring Legacy
Overall, the superstition surrounding placing cowboy hats on beds remains a deeply ingrained part of Western and ranch culture, with roots that stretch back generations. For those who embrace the cowboy lifestyle, adhering to these traditions is a way to honor the rich history and beliefs of their predecessors.
While the origins of the superstition may be debated, its significance in cowboy culture is undeniable. The cowboy hat is more than just a practical accessory; it is a symbol of the cowboy's identity, pride, and connection to a unique way of life. By respecting the traditions and superstitions associated with the hat, modern cowboys pay tribute to the legacy of those who came before them and keep the spirit of the American West alive.