Our textile conservators and volunteers continue work on the Inventory Reconciliation Project and, while the process remains complex and painstaking, we are making meaningful progress in ensuring the long-term care and preservation of PAS’s historic textiles.
At the same time, we are thrilled to be opening up the collection to the public in new ways. The Society is pleased to present a special series of Historic Clothing Parlor Talks this season—offering rare glimpses into some of the most exquisite and seldom-seen garments in our collection. These exhibits provide an opportunity not only to admire these beautifully preserved pieces but also to learn about their craftsmanship, construction, and the fascinating stories of the individuals who wore them.
The talks will be held at 2:00 p.m. on select Tuesdays at the Hedge House Museum on Water Street. Each program will feature a focused exhibit of historic items, paired with expert commentary and discussion.
2025 Parlor Talk Schedule:
- May 13 – Clothing of the Revolutionary Era
Join our exceptional textile conservators, Renee Walker-Tuttle and Katy O’Donnell, for a deep dive into stellar examples of clothing from the Revolutionary War era. Discover how these garments were made, who wore them, and what they reveal about life in early America. - July 8 – Dresses of the 1920s
Explore the glamour and innovation of Jazz Age fashion through examples that reveal the social changes and expressive styles of the Roaring Twenties. - August 12 – Military Uniforms across Time
View an array of military garments spanning generations, including rare Civil War pieces recently stabilized and conserved through our current project. - October 7 – Mourning Needlework and Accessories
Discover the material culture of grief and remembrance, from embroidered mourning pieces to period accessories steeped in symbolism and sentiment.
Tickets are on sale now for the May 13th program! Go to plymouthantiquarian.org/events. Don’t miss this chance to gain a richer appreciation for one of PAS’s most extraordinary collections.
