Hatstand

A hatstand (UK), hatrack (US) or coat rack is a device used to store hats and often coats on, and umbrellas within. Some upscale catalogues in Europe markets it as a portmanteau from the French words Porter (carry) and Manteau (cloak).

The front hall was the introduction to the house, and as such was an important part of the Victorian home. Furnishings were selected not only to make it a useful place to hang a hat and coat, store an umbrella and leave a calling card, but also to show family wealth, social position and knowledge of current styles. A hall stand or a hatrack was the most important piece of furniture. These were new forms that appeared about 1840, as homes became larger and social visits became more structured; see also Hall Tree.