Waistcoat
Dateca. 1785
OriginEngland
MediumWool, silk, linen, silver (button and metallic trim), copper (metallic trim)
DimensionsOverall CF: 20 in.; CB: 19 1/2 in.; Chest; 44 in.; Waist: 42 in.
Credit LineMuseum Purchase
Object number2019-121
DescriptionThe waistcoat is made from a broadcloth and faced in a matching twilled shalloon. The back of the waistcoat is made from a poor-quality linen and the lining from a heavily napped fustian. The waistcoat has a standing collar and silver metallic lace running down the front and hem and around the welted or cross pockets. The most notable thing about the waistcoat is the extreme alteration that took place on the side seam, making it nearly 1/3 larger than the first making of the garment.ProvenanceThis coat came from the family of Thomas Crewe Dodd Esq (1754-1827) of Edge Hall, Malpas, Cheshire, England. In August 1775 at the age of 21, Thomas began his military career in the 16th (Queen’s) Light Dragoons as a Cornet. He went to America in August 1776, under Lieutenant George John Burgoyne and returned back to England two years later. Thomas was promoted to Lieutenant in 21st Regiment of Light Dragoons and made Captain in the 23rd Regiment of Light Dragoons on September 28, 1781. The 23rd Light Dragoons were deployed to India in 1782 and on July 27, 1785 Dodd was promoted to Major. Dodd left military life in 1786 and returned to his Cheshire estate. He took part in the formation of the Cheshire Provincial Cavalry in 1798 and was commanding officer of the Western Cheshire Yeomanry raised in 1803. He married Anne, daughter of Ralf Sneyd of Keele. They had five daughters and two boys.
