Wedding Suit Vest
Original OwnerOriginally owned by
Henry Thompson Curtiss
(American, 1751 - 1814)
Clothing MakerMade by
Unknown
Date1778
MediumHand-stitched cotton/linen and linen, with cotton/linen-covered wooden (probably) buttons
DimensionsPrimary Dimensions (center back length x width across chest): 26 1/4 x 16 3/4in. (66.7 x 42.5cm)
ClassificationsCostume
Credit LineGift of Nancy Burdge
Object number1987.82.1.2
DescriptionMan's vest of white rib-woven cotton/linen. The vest has a high, round neckline which is edged on the inside with a strip of plain linen. The shoulderline is high, and the vest is below-hip-length. The center front opening fastens with twelve buttons from the neck to the lower edge, which is cut away in an inverse V. Each lower front side has a flap covering a curved, slashed pocket with a plain linen pocket bag. The flaps have a double concave curve, meeting at a point in the center. The sides of the vest front are flared towards the back. The side-back seams are vented for 4 1/2 inches, with the front panels extending in a point 2 1/4 inches below the back panels. The right back panel is pieced.
NotesHistorical Note: According to donor family history, this vest is 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
