As a living history interpreter, I have researched and sewn my own historic clothing. The experience of wearing this clothing has taught me that 'funny looking clothes' are an excellent way to engage with the public. It is my experience that the public can often be too embarrassed or intimidated to ask questions about History, but they see  clothing as 'safe' and can initiate a conversation based on what I am wearing -usually with the question 'Aren't you hot in that?' Most of the time I can truthfully say no, and then engage them in how the construction of the garment and the natural fibre cloth I used keeps me cooler than if I were wearing shorts and a t-shirt. Hopefully they are then comfortable enough to continue with other questions, or I can offer up further information on the time period.

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When it came time to choose a final project for my Public History Masters, I was certain that it must include historic clothing. For this exhibition I sewed an 18th century dress to better understand the experiences of 'mantua makers' of that period. The dress was inspired by the July 1770 wedding portrait of Mary 'Polly' Stevenson. As there is no existing portrait of the full dress, I will use original source materials such as letters, portraits, and family tax records in order to create a my interpretation of what Polly would have worn. 

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This project was an interesting challenge for me, as it is a fashion period that I was new to me. I sewed the dress by hand, using 18th century methods as a way to replicate the experience of 18th century dress makers; the choices made in construction, techniques used, and the impact of female run business. 

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I am excited that this project will be a useful way to show how important material culture is for sharing history with the public. This is an evolving project, so do check in often for updates, and feel free to comment and question!