Living History @ Home
Want to be creative and learn about the 18th century? Join us for a weekly virtual Living History program via Zoom with our Living History coordinator Cheyney McKnight as we explore the kind of clothing people wore in colonial America. Log in for any one of the programs or all four! See the schedule and Zoom registration details for each week below
Make your own bedgown at home! Download the instructions here.
Make your own petticoat or breeches at home! Download the instructions here.
Make your own hats and caps at home! Download the instructions here.
Discover 18th-Century Clothing!
Wednesday, April 15 | 1-2 pm
Free; all ages
Learn about different pieces of historic clothing, how garments were constructed, and the process of getting dressed in the 18th century. Bring a paper and pencil and start sketching your own outfits.
Discover 18th-Century Clothing: Make a Bedgown
Wednesday, April 22 | 1-2 pm
Free; all ages
Learn all about the most common women’s garment in the 18th century : a bedgown! A bedgown was a common garment worn as a top over petticoats by working-class women. Try your hand at making a bedgown or shirt using materials you have around the house! No sewing required.
Discover 18th-Century Clothing: Make a Petticoat
Wednesday, April 29 | 1-2 pm
Free; all ages
This week, focus on the petticoat! Learn about the most common materials and construction of this 18th-century staple. Then, gather materials from around the house to make your own! No sewing required.
Discover 18th-Century Clothing: Make the Accessories
Wednesday, May 6 | 1-2 pm
Free; all ages
Discover the accessories that tie the entire 18th-century ensemble together. Put the finishing touches on your outfit by making a cap or tricorn hat using household items! No sewing required.
New-York Historical is temporarily closed in order to help protect the health and safety of our visitors, staff, and the wider community during this outbreak of COVID-19. Your support is vital for our ability to continue serving the public. Please consider making a contribution to help fund all facets of our mission. DONATE HERE
Image Caption: Living History Coordinator Cheyney McKnight
Image Credit: Simmons University
