Dress me up!

[Ross L. Lamoreaux]

Re: Dress me up!

I'm finding myself in the same position, as I'm working at an 1890's farm site in Florida. There are some subtle variations in patterns and materials, but roughly the same idea. I've found a good pair of heavy cotton overalls indispensable, as well as some good trousers for those days when taking care of the necessary functions would be quicker and easier than having to pull off the overalls if you know what I mean. Without a doubt a quality vest (might I recommend your fellow Georgian Kiev Thomason for that type of garment), and Mrs. Lawson definitely hit the nail on the head about not skimping on a hat - a high quality civilian hat is your best piece of kit on the farm. I've had good luck with a few shoe vendors, but I've resorted to a higher type shoe similiar to Robert Lands 1830-1840 shoe based on some original images of Florida farmers in the early 1890's, plus the comfort and support are great working in the cane field. Best of luck on the farm and may you have as much fun as I have in my new career.

[Spinster]

Re: Dress me up!

plus the comfort and support are great working in the cane field. Best of luck on the farm and may you have as much fun as I have in my new career.

Cane? Cane!! Ross has sweet cane at his farm?!!?? :tounge_sm

Yum. When is the syrup boiling?

[Jefferson Guards]

Re: Dress me up!

Here are some great period genre paintings by William Sidney Mount with farmers as the subject. Genre paintings really are a fantastic way to research what might not be available via photographs.

[Ross L. Lamoreaux]

Re: Dress me up!

Cane? Cane!! Ross has sweet cane at his farm?!!?? :tounge_sm

Yum. When is the syrup boiling?

We start cutting in November and boiling in December, with the little crop we have on site. I'll be sure to make arrangements for transportation to my favorite Tuscaloosan (if thats a word) for some of the better product. I have to fight a couple of guys over the molassas, as I'm sure they've got a homebrew rum operation going. We do quite a bit more in February for the crowds we get at the state fair.

[kevinw33]

Re: Dress me up!

That's exactly the one I'm talking about.

The original coat is in the permanent collection of the center. Talk to the curators about the type of fabric you need--they may also be able to refer you to someone who has experience reproducing this coat.

Fred Baker, a member of this board, has made this coat many times, and did an excellent job on the one made for my husband. You may also wish to check with him to find out if he is taking orders right now.

I actually looked at the pattern today, and it seems very long. It look like it would go below the knees, does that sound right? If so, wouldn't I need a sack coat or something to wear under it?