The origin of the ten gallon hat came not from improvised liquid measurements out on the range but from the Spanish galon, meaning “braid.” The ten-braid hat, a signature of the talented cowboy-star Tom Mix, became especially popular during the Coolidge 20s.
Here President Coolidge, trying on his own hats (a stetson below, with ten-gallons further down – thank you, readers!), wears them with style. Devoid of pretentiousness, Calvin Coolidge knew it was good for people to be able to laugh, even at their leaders. Consequently, Americans across the country came to love and respect this wise man’s humor, humble confidence and ability.
The Importance of the Obvious 
This is an excellent collection of photos. As someone interested in both western wear and firearms, I have come to believe that Coolidge is wearing a Stetson felt hat in the “Tom Mix” style of his time – inspired by the movie star of the same name. I also believe the gun he is pictured with several times is a Winchester Model 12 Black Diamond Trap. Both of these items are now on my wish list…
I have been searching for that very thing…I also think his hat may be a Stetson, but have not found confirmation of it.