Wedding Suit Breeches
Original OwnerOriginally owned by
Henry Thompson Curtiss
(American, 1751 - 1814)
Clothing MakerMade by
Unknown
Date1778
MediumHand-stitched linen, with self-covered bone buttons and a replacement glass button
DimensionsPrimary Dimensions (side length x width across waist): 23 1/2 x 15in. (59.7 x 38.1cm)
ClassificationsCostume
Credit LineGift of Nancy Burdge
Object number1987.82.1.3
DescriptionMan's broad fall breeches of white twill-woven linen. The fall buttons at the hips and on either side of the center front. The waistband is 4 1/2 inches wide at center front and fastens with three very large, domed, plain linen-covered buttons (one-inch diameter). There is a 5 3/8-inch-wide pocket set into the right side of the waistband. The front of the breeches is smooth, while the back is gathered into the waistband. The center back seam and waistband are open for 5 1/2 inches. Eyelets in the waistband are laced with braided cotton string to adjust the fit. The legs are splayed. The sides of the legs are open for about 8 1/2 inches and fasten with four self-covered buttons. The knee band is 1 1/2 inches wide; the strap has been cut off short, and a nineteenth century white glass button sewn on. The breeches are lined with plain-woven linen in the waistband (except for left front, which is self-fabric) and leg openings. The plain linen is also used for the pocket bag.
NotesHistorical Note: According to donor family history, these breeches are part of the wedding suit of Henry Thompson Curtiss (22 March 1751-18 April 1814). In December 1778, he married Phebe Sherman (d. 5 February 1826), daughter of Ebenezer Sherman.Status
Not on view
