The weather plays a key role and is a constant topic of conversation in Maine life. Even when compared to other New England states, Maine is unique for our temperature extremes. Formal meteorological records for New England date to the mid-1880s, but diaries, logbooks and other primary sources provide a general understanding of weather events as far back as the early 1700s.
A pleasant Maine summer, crisp autumn, or relatively nonexistent spring are Maine staples, but they are all secondary to winter in the collective Maine mind. Anticipating next year’s winter is a time-honored Maine tradition. As global warming and other environmental factors continue to generate new and unpredictable weather patterns, compatibility will result in future clothing changes.
As is the case with most everyday wear, at present (2022) the collection’s selection of practical 19th century outerwear is very limited. What does survive demonstrates the ways people tried to keep warm while leaning into fashion, and what might be considered form over function outerwear.
