Slingin’ Hats for Over 60 Years

By Sarah Parr

At the tender age of fifteen Robert Harris found himself shining shoes hoping to make a little extra cash. Little did he know that this humble endeavor would lead him to a lifelong career in the fascinating world of hats at Cleveland’s iconic hat shop, Mike the Hatter.

Scouted to work at Mike the Hatter, Harris not only gained a new job but also discovered a second family. Pete, the owner of Mike the Hatter, treated Harris like a son, fostering a bond that lasted a lifetime.

As a teenager earning a weekly wage of $85 in the 1960s, Harris embarked on a lucrative career that eventually inspired him to sell hats outside his church. Three years ago, this journey culminated in the opening of his brick-and-mortar store in the vibrant Larchmere neighborhood, Mr. Gilbert’s Hats.

Reflecting on his youth, the now 76-year-old Harris expresses gratitude to Pete, his mentor and quasi-father figure. “I had a pretty good life as a young guy,” Harris reminisces. “He is my idol, and I appreciate everything Pete taught me, practical skills, life advice, and a solid work ethic.”

Dispensing wisdom acquired over six decades Harris notes, “The best way to get money out of a person’s pocket is to treat them right. My customers are always smiling, and they love our conversations. If a hat doesn’t look good, I’ll tell you.”

As for the future of Mr. Gilbert’s Hats, Harris has a family legacy in mind. His grandson, with whom he shares a close bond, is poised to take over when the time is right. “Me and him are so close,” Harris explains. Moreover, with Harris’ grandson now having two sons of his own, Harris envisions them growing up in the unique and enduring hat business. “It’s a great business,” Harris concludes with pride.

Mr. Gilbert’s Hats
12900 Larchmere Blvd, Cleveland, Ohio 44120
Phone Number: 216-374-4745

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Sarah Parr

A 2020 Case Western Reserve University graduate, Sarah has called the East Side of Cleveland home for almost a decade. As a student, she held editorial positions on the CWRU Observer spanning digital and business, with the occasional dips into print and design. Since then, her writing has been published in local outlets such as Cleveland SCENE Magazine and Destination Cleveland's Insider Guides. When not exploring and sharing the culture of Cleveland, Sarah does copywriting and editing for brands all over the country, and acting for regional productions on both stage and screen.