Why the Top Hat and Tails?
 There are several legends as to why chimney sweeps wore top hats and tails. One legend has it that in old
England the King, wishing to honor the Chimney Sweep who saved his life by pushing him out of the way of a runaway horse and carriage,
awarded their profession the special recognition of wearing top hats, which was a custom previously reserved for royalty and the gentry.
 Another legend has it that chimney sweeps  most often got their clothing as cast-offs from funeral directors. The outfit was always a very
practical black in color, and gave an air of distinction to a dirty, though necessary, job. In addition, it is said that in the 1700's,
chimney sweeps often wore slippers because they could be more easily removed, freeing the toes to aid their climbing grip.
|
