Blue silk calash style bonnet, Alna, ca. 1835

Contributed by Maine Historical Society

Description

The calash style bonnet originated in the mid-18th century, designed to protect larger hairstyles. The style continued well into the 19th century. It is best described by Thomas Wright in volume one of his work "England under the House of Hanover," first published in 1848. Wright mentioned:

"One description of a cap or bonnet continued, however, for a time in favour. It was called a calash, and is said to have been invented in 1765, by the Duchess of Bedford. The calash was formed like the hood of a carriage, and was strengthened with whale bone hoops, so that by means of a string in front, connected with the hoops, it could be either drawn forwards over the face, or it might be thrown backwards over the hair."

This blue silk calash’s frame is made of wood, not whalebone. Similar to caged hoop crinolines of the later 19th century, the style was collapsible. The calash is associated with the Sherman family of Alna.

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About This Item

  • Title: Blue silk calash style bonnet, Alna, ca. 1835
  • Creation Date: circa 1835
  • Subject Date: circa 1835
  • Location: Alna, Lincoln County, ME
  • Media: silk, wood, cotton
  • Local Code: 2020.103.002
  • Collection: Costume collection
  • Object Type: Physical Object

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For more information about this item, contact:

Maine Historical Society
485 Congress Street, Portland, ME 04101
(207) 774-1822 x230
Website

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