Contributed by Maine Historical Society
- MMN #105810
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Description
This two-piece young boy’s collarless wool suit is reminiscent of an English hunting jacket, sometimes called "Norfolk style." The jacket and trousers are embellished with embroidery on both the front and back, with decorative buttons and an attached belt.
Fred Ermon Eastman (circa 1865-1948) was born at Strong but his family soon moved to Portland, where his father Briceno M. Eastman operated Eastman Bros. Dry Goods. The business specialized in “shawls and cloaks made a specialty.” Such sartorial enterprising likely contributed to young Fred’s quality wardrobe.
While gender-neutral clothing for young children was still popular at the time, boys eventually moved away from dresses. "Breeching," the moment a young boy started to wear trousers or breeches, took place roughly between ages four to six, but it depended on circumstance.
About This Item
- Title: Fred E. Eastman's childhood suit, ca. 1875
- Creation Date: circa 1875
- Subject Date: circa 1875
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Locations:
- Portland, Cumberland County, ME
- Strong, Franklin County, ME
- Media: wool, cotton, metal
- Local Code: A85-697 a,b
- Collection: Costume collection
- Object Type: Physical Object
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For more information about this item, contact:
Maine Historical Society485 Congress Street, Portland, ME 04101
(207) 774-1822 x230
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