January 31, 2009 2:29

Smithsonian asks for Aretha's inauguration hat

Washington museum wants her giant bow-style headgear

The Washington Smithsonian museum has asked Aretha Franklin to donate the hat she wore when she performed at the Presidential inauguration last week (January 20).

Franklin sang ‘Let Freedom Ring’ at the swearing-in of President Obama in Washington D.C., but is hesitant to hand over the bow-shaped headgear as it signifies such a momentous occasion for her personally.

“I am considering it. It would be hard to part with my chapeau since it was such a crowning moment in history,” the Queen of Soul told people.com. “I would like to smile every time I look back at it and remember what a great moment it was in American and African-American history. Ten cheers for President Obama.”

The hat, which was designed by miliner Luke Song, would join in the museum the Jason Wu-designed dress worn by Michelle Obama on January 20.

--By our New York staff.
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