Contributed by Maine Historical Society
Description
The calash style bonnet originated in the mid-18th century, designed to protect larger hairstyles. The style continued well into the 19th century. It is best described by Thomas Wright in volume one of his work "England under the House of Hanover," first published in 1848. Wright mentioned:
"One description of a cap or bonnet continued, however, for a time in favour. It was called a calash, and is said to have been invented in 1765, by the Duchess of Bedford. The calash was formed like the hood of a carriage, and was strengthened with whale bone hoops, so that by means of a string in front, connected with the hoops, it could be either drawn forwards over the face, or it might be thrown backwards over the hair."
This blue silk calash’s frame is made of wood, not whalebone. Similar to caged hoop crinolines of the later 19th century, the style was collapsible. The calash is associated with the Sherman family of Alna.
About This Item
- Title: Blue silk calash style bonnet, Alna, ca. 1835
- Creation Date: circa 1835
- Subject Date: circa 1835
- Location: Alna, Lincoln County, ME
- Media: silk, wood, cotton
- Local Code: 2020.103.002
- Collection: Costume collection
- Object Type: Physical Object
Cross Reference Searches
Standardized Subject Headings
Other Keywords
For more information about this item, contact:
Maine Historical Society485 Congress Street, Portland, ME 04101
(207) 774-1822 x230
Website
Use of this Item is not restricted by copyright and/or related rights, but the holding organization is contractually obligated to limit use. For more information, please contact the contributing organization. However, watermarked Maine Memory Network images may be used for educational purposes.
Please post your comment below to share with others. If you'd like to privately share a comment or correction with MMN staff, please send us a message with this link.
