Southern Boy’s suit

This mid 19th century era boy’s suit is in the collection of The American Textile Museum. It is a fabulous example of what boys past the breeching age were wearing in the American South.

Notice how the shirt buttons to the trousers’ waistband. This construction style originates in the late 18th/early 19th century with�the introduction of the skeleton suit (a style specifically designed�for children). This mid 19th century version is neat and non fussy, allows�for minimal fabric waste, and�maximum freedom of movement.�Garment details as follows:

Maker/Author:�Brockman, Ann Elizabeth

Place Made:�USA: VA, Charlottesville

Date Made:�1865-1867

Description:
Suit; cotton, includes a shirt (A) of red and white gingham check, and trousers (B) of blue and white ticking. Shirt (A), rounded neck. Center front opening with seven white buttons. Long sleeves with banded cuffs, single button closure. Banded waist with seven buttons used to attach trousers. Trousers (B), banded waist with ten buttonholes. Side pockets on either hip.

About Susan

Hi! My name is Susan and I am a historian, seamstress, teacher, mother, and wife. My passion for history has manifested itself in the art of recreating clothing from different periods of time. Growing up in the American South, I am heavily schooled in the art of recreating clothing from the 19th century. After nearly a decade of immersing myself primarily in the Victorian period, I found the need to branch out and explore other periods of time. However, it is my connection with the American South and the clothing of rural America that continues to be the driving force behind my designs. View all posts by Susan