Iridescent shot silk crinoline dress, Farmington, ca. 1869

Contributed by Maine Historical Society

Iridescent shot silk crinoline dress, Farmington, ca. 1869

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Description

Supported and shaped by stiff horsehair petticoats, this period’s wide skirts became known as crinolines. The name derives from the French word "crin" meaning horsehair.

The shot silk taffeta dress features a detached fringed pelerine or caplet, that matches a purple crinoline skirt, with shoulder-to-waist gold fringe attached to the bodice, creating a fashionable 'small cape' effect.

Shot silk is also called changeable silk or changeable taffeta. The fabric is woven in two or more different colors which produces an iridescent sheen.

The dress is associated with Mrs. Mary Reed (Cutler) Goodenow who lived from 1806-1873, wife of Robert Goodenow. The couple lived in Farmington.

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About This Item

  • Title: Iridescent shot silk crinoline dress, Farmington, ca. 1869
  • Creation Date: circa 1869
  • Subject Date: circa 1869
  • Location: Farmington , Franklin County, ME
  • Media: silk, cotton, baleen
  • Dimensions: 140.970 cm x 316.865 cm
  • Local Code: A86-85
  • Collection: Costume collection
  • Object Type: Physical Object

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For more information about this item, contact:

Maine Historical Society
485 Congress Street, Portland, ME 04101
(207) 774-1822 x230
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Mary Goodenow's changable silk dress, Farmington, ca. 1852

Mary Goodenow's changable silk dress, Farmington, ca. 1852

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