Dress.
PeriodCirca 1860
Place MadeNew York or New Jersey, U.S.A.
MediumSilk taffeta, glazed cotton, whalebone, silk fringe
Dimensions59 in. (149.9 cm)
ClassificationsCostume, Women's
Credit LineGift of Henry Acken Meckes, 1948
Object number3266.2
DescriptionA woman's one piece gown of plaid silk taffeta in brown, black, tan, and off-white. The dress is constructed as one piece, with a front hook-and-eye closure and a "dogleg" style waistband closure. The gown's long sleeves flare out from shoulder to wrist. Both bodice and skirt are lined with glazed brown cotton. The high round neckline as well as the shoulder seams are piped. The hem of the gown is faced with brown glazed cotton. Attached small "wings" are sewn over the shoulders, tapering to the waistband. Golden brown silk fringe is sewn to the wing panels, upper sleeves, and along the sleeve ends.Curatorial RemarksSilk plaid taffeta was enormously popular during the 1850s and into the 1860s. A wide variety of color combinations and patterns were available. Gowns of this type could be worn at home, visiting friends, attending church, or many other public activities. Silk fringe, in varying lengths and styles, was the most popular choice for trimming. An attractive embroidered white cambric, muslin, or linen collar would have been worn with gowns of this type, as well as matching or contrasting white embroidered undersleeves. these accessories were not only decorative but protected the silk fabric from perspiration and body oils. The wearer could also include a sash or decorative ribbon belt and buckle to further enhance the garment.NotesThis simple yet charming gown was worn by Katherina Becker Meckes. Born in Germany in April 1849, Katherina emigrated to the United States as a young girl with her family. She married successful New York barber George Meckes (1836-1898) in June of 1870. The couple had seven children (six boys and one girl) and later moved to Paterson, New Jersey. Katherina (who is listed as "Catherine" in several Federal Census records) was in her teens when she wore this dress. Katherina's dress was passed down through the family and was donated by her grandson Henry Meckes (1914-1978) to the Historical Association in 1948. This is one of two dresses worn by Katherina Meckes. The second gown is accessioned as 3266.
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