Charlie’s Hat
by Mike Moutoux,
Western Entertainer & Cowboy Poet

They introduced him to me as “Cowboy Charlie”
Though his occupation was clear beyond a doubt
That old Stetson he was wearin’ told me a-plenty
One look told me what he was all about

The brim was shaped and curled; the felt was worn and thin
The crown was stained from years of summer sweat and grease
A frayed band of silk had faded to match the color
Of bits of hay collected in the crease

He told me later that strangers asked to buy it
Guess they couldn’t find one like it in antique stores
They wanted a trophy and would pay top dollar if
They could skip the dirty work and saddle sores

He never took the cash, I didn’t ask him why
For years that hat and him were never far apart
He wouldn’t feel right, sellin’ a piece of him like that
For a stranger to hang on a wall like it was art

Charlie’s life is his art and no it ain’t for sale
Folks can appreciate the art or just leave it
So when Charlie tells you, “No, the hat ain’t for sale”
Keep your money to yourself and believe it

Now, Charlie is a friend of mine, I’m happy to report
So I’m sure he won’t mind if I let you in
On a secret I’ve discovered about that ol’ hat
He won’t sell it-- but he’ll tell you where it’s been

There’s a lot of stories in and under that John B.
Funny ones and tales of love and personal loss
His eyes shine bright when brings out the clippings
Of him with that Appaloosa hoss

The stories stretch from New Mexico to New England
Complete with names of horses, ranches and the men
He tells a good story and I know that Charlie likes
Recallin’ all the places that hat’s been

Now, some folks dress for success as if they think
Their fates could be determined by the clothes they wear
Well, a cowboy’s hat ain’t gonna tell you where he’s goin’
But one look and you’ll know if he’s been there.