A study in nineteenth-century American costumes based on Mary Todd Lincoln and Thomas "Tad" Lincoln.
Date of Graduation
2005
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Type
MFA
College
College of Creative Arts
Committee Chair
Linda Milian
Abstract
An interest in nineteenth century history led to a desire to study the construction of American garments during this period. The historical figures, Mary Todd Lincoln, and Thomas “Tad” Lincoln, her son were selected as the basis of a study of mid-Victorian costume pattern-making and construction.
The main goal in pursuing this project was to gain a better understanding of the historical zeitgeist of the period and the pattern making and construction of American women’s, and children’s nineteenth century garments. The objectives of the thesis were to: 1) study, organize and research what Americans wore in the mid-Victorian era; 2) examine the life of Mary Todd Lincoln and her son Thomas “Tad” Lincoln between 1860 and1865; 3) use background research to identify shapes, develop scaled patterns and construct exhibit-worthy garments that were representative of the wardrobe of Mary Todd Lincoln; and 4) use background research to identify pattern shapes and develop scaled patterns for Thomas “Tad” Lincoln.
Recommended Citation
Wise, Sheila A., "A study in nineteenth-century American costumes based on Mary Todd Lincoln and Thomas "Tad" Lincoln." (2005). Graduate Theses, Dissertations, and Problem Reports. 10922.
https://researchrepository.wvu.edu/etd/10922