Historic Happenings Blog

Union Made: Fashioning America in the 20th Century January 15, 2020 - April 25, 2020 | 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm | Changing Exhibits The Museum proudly opens the exhibit   Union Made:  Fashioning America in the 20th Century   by Denise Green, Ph.D., and Patrizia Sione, Ph.D. on Wednesday, January 15th, 2020.  The exhibit features union-made garments, union memorabilia and multi-media to highlight the role unions played to improve working conditions and safety standards, wages and benefits and promotion of the U.S. fashion industry during the 20th century. Union Made:  Fashioning America in the 20th Century  is a collaboration between the Kheel Center and Cornell Costume and Textile Collection at Cornell University to celebrate 20th-century fashion trends alongside the history of organized labor and union labeling efforts in the United States. Dr. Denise Green is an assistant professor of fiber science and apparel design and director of the Cornell Costume and Texti...

Saturday, March 28 – Essex County Dressed to Kill: Fashion in the Victorian Era 1:00 – 4:00 p.m.     Learn about the hidden dangers of Victorian fashion and enjoy a Victorian-style reception in the gracious atmosphere of Kingsland Manor.   From arsenic in clothing to blazing crinolines, to lead in cosmetics, throughout history, we have worn deadly clothing and makeup to be at the height of fashion . . . even if it kills us. Textile and fashion historian Dana Bala will discuss some of the most lethal fashion practices in history, focusing on the Victorian and Edwardian periods, when people were literally “Dressed to Kill.”    After the presentation, attendees will enjoy a variety of Victorian tea refreshments at an informal reception.   Join us for a fun Victorian-themed afternoon at Kingsland Manor, March 28 th , 2020 from 1 – 4 pm. The event is limited to the first 25 who register. Tickets are $20.   Reservations for...

Functional and Fanciful, the History of Aprons Historic Walnford 62 Walnford Rd, Allentown, NJ 08501 Sunday, March 8, 2020, 1:30-3:00 PM (adults) Vintage aprons from the speaker's collection will be on display in the Wain House this afternoon for all to enjoy, in conjunction with a brief talk at 1:30 PM exploring the historic and sociological implications of this item of everyday wear. The impact of this simple garment will be discussed from early biblical references to the feminist movement of the late 20th century. Attendees are encouraged to bring a favorite apron and share its story in this informal yet informative program.

Dressed to Kill: From Arsenic in Clothing, Lead in Cosmetics to Blazing Crinolines at Bouman Stickney Farmstead Sunday, March 1, 2020 at 1:00 pm  -  4:00 pm   Free Dressed to Kill From Arsenic in Clothing, Lead in Cosmetics to Blazing Crinolines Readington Township, NJ-   On  Sunday, March 1 from 1:00-4:00 pm,   Dana Bala  will present  Dressed to Kill:  From Arsenic in Clothing, Lead in Cosmetics to Blazing Crinolines.  Throughout history, we have worn deadly clothing and makeup to be the height of fashion even if it kills us! Bala will discuss some of the most lethal fashion practices during history, focusing on the Victorian period, when people were Dressed To Kill. Bala has presented at other historic sites such as the Abraham Staats House, the Miller-Cory Museum, and volunteers at Washington Crossing Park. Her other areas of interest/expertise include embroidery, cooking and genealogy. This Open House Sunday program will b...

Victorian Fashions Historic Longstreet Farm, 44 Longstreet Road, Holmdel 07733 Sunday, March 1, 2020, 12:00-2:00 PM (all ages, under 18 with adult) Have you ever wondered what it really feels like to wear the historic clothing our staff wears? Now you can find out! Get all gussied up in the "latest" styles when you visit the Longstreet family farmhouse. From petticoats to parasols and trousers to top hats, we have what you need to transform yourself into a true Victorian. 

Sunday, September 9 through Sunday, July 14, 2019 Iconic Culture: From Little Black Dress to Bell Bottoms     Morris County Historical Society’s upcoming exhibit, Iconic Culture: From Little Black Dress to Bell Bottoms , promises to be a one-stop spot for a stroll down memory lane.     From the timeless designs of Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel to the trend-setting bell bottoms of Sonny and Cher, MCHS explores more than 50 years of cultural history through a retrospective featuring nearly 100 pieces from its historic textile collection.  Iconic Culture  will examine how changes in clothing styles mirrored the social climate of their time and the seminal moments and people who defined their decade – with a focus on New Jersey history.        In addition to the fashions,  Iconic Culture  will highlight cultural milestones in local, state, and national history that coincided with the Roaring 20s, Great...

Sunday, May 5 – Ocean County A Victorian Lady's Wardrobe     Join Ocean County Historical Society’s members and friends at  2:00 PM on Sunday, May 5 th  at 26 Hadley Avenue, Toms River. Learn the secrets of how Victorian women managed to create the fashionable silhouette long admired by all. Adjunct professor of art and art history , Lydia Chiappini  is also an artist who will present a fascinating program,  A Victorian Lady’s Wardrobe.   A resident of Blairstown, NJ, Ms. Chiappini not only creates art from fibers, acrylics, oils, watercolors, metals, and clay, but also puts her artistic talents to work as she creates and models Victorian costumes and undergarments.     Call 732-341-1880 to make your reservation. No admission fee. Refreshments will be served.

Ladies' Night Out: A Night of Vintage Fashion Friday, March 22 Grab some of your closest friends and join us for a fashion-forward ladies' night at Liberty Hall! You'll be treated to wine and cheese while enjoying an exclusive viewing of Liberty Hall Museum's exquisite collection of vintage clothing and accessories. Next, stick around for an informative and entertaining talk on the fashion collection of Liberty Hall! Must be 21 years or older to attend. Program Time: 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Program Fee: $25.00 per person; $20.00 for museum members/Kean Alumni Reservations required by March 15 Make a reservation Click here to make a reservation Please call  908-527-0400  or email  libertyhall@kean.edu