Maternity Jacket

Date1780-1795

MediumCotton quilted to cotton with linen thread; cotton batting; lined with linen tabby; trimmed with linen fringe

DimensionsOL: 20" waist: 27" (when laced edge to edge)

Credit LineMuseum Purchase

Object number1936-666,3

DescriptionJacket belonging to three-piece maternity ensemble of quilted white cotton with thin cotton wadding and coarse cotton backing. Jacket is tight fitting with center lacing; cut short in front allowing points of vest to extend below natural waistline. Untrimmed low neckline. Back of jacket is shaped to fit closely, then flared into full pleated and gathered peplum 'skirt,' ending with deep point at center back waist. Long fitted sleeves have vent at wrist, each closed with three linen covered buttons. Trimmed with 3/4" looped linen fringe. Jacket designed to be laced over under vest, which expands waistline to accommodate pregnancy.

Construction History:

1. 1780-1795: Initial Construction
2. February 17, 1954: Repairs by Ernest LoNanoLabel TextPregnant and nursing women had to alter and adapt their usual clothing to accommodate their condition. This clever maternity ensemble (1936-666,1-3), consisted of this jacket, intended to be worn over an expansion vest (1936-666,2) along with a petticoat (1936-666,1) with an expandable waistband.

Without effective birth control, 18th-century women expected to bear five to ten or more children, of whom several would likely die in infancy or early childhood. As a result, many women were pregnant or nursing a child much of their adult lives. This ensemble was useful during many stages of life, as the jacket could also be worn without the vest after the child was born.ProvenancePrior to 1936, Lenygon & Morant (London, England); 1936, purchased by The Colonial Williamsburg Foundation (Williamsburg, VA)