Thursday and Friday I had the amazing privilege of doing some stitching in Fort Ticonderoga's tailor Shop. In the shop, the Tailors hand stitch, build, and repair all of the clothing their interpreters wear. They speak to the public about the trade of tailoring, which many soldiers in the Revolutionary War practiced, the different types of fabrics used and where they were imported from, and the sturdy construction and features military clothing had to withstand the life of a soldier.
Paul, of the 5th NY Regiment, was in the shop learning how to construct wool breeches. I was helping him sew and learning a huge amount from the tailors Stuart, Adam, and Gibb. As apposed to modern sewing techniques where finishing and hemming comes last, we finished off each piece of the garment first and then stitched them together. This allows for multiple tailors to work at once and complete the project efficiently.
Tailors sit cross legged on their work table while sewing. This way it is easy for multiple people to gather around the garment.
Although tailoring was a men's trade and not something I as a women would be doing in the 18th century , I had some great opportunities to talk to the public about my weaving apprenticeship and the clothing that I was wearing.
Adam and I stitching.
Paul working on the waist band.
Gibb giving some instruction.
The interpreters get authentic solider rations for lunch cooked by the staff in the field kitchen. It was super delicious both days!
Leaving the inseam open, Stuart was able to fit and pin the Breeches on Paul and achieve the slim fit that was fashionable of the time.
Most of the staff lives down the road. My room in the Winter House, where I spent the night, had an overshot coverlet on it !! (yay happy weaver).
