Learn How to Make an 18th-Century “Pocket” During a Virtual Stitch-In

The fanny pack of the 18th century? During the Revolutionary-era, pockets weren’t sewn into women’s clothing as they are now. Instead, pockets were tied around the waist beneath a woman’s gown to conceal important items like keys or money. Learn how to make your own hand-sewn pocket during a virtual, three-night stitch-in from Tuesday, Nov. 17 – Thursday, Nov. 19, from 7 - 8:30 p.m., as part of the Museum of the American Revolution’s Artisan Workshop Series.

The virtual stitch-in will take attendees behind the scenes of the Museum’s new special exhibition When Women Lost the Vote: A Revolutionary Story, 1776-1807 to learn about the Revolutionary roots of women’s fashion. Each evening will begin with the Museum’s Curatorial Fellow in Women’s History Dr. Marcela Micucci introducing textiles featured in the special exhibition, such as the wedding dress (ca. 1760-1790) of Deborah Sampson, the now-famous female soldier who disguised herself as a man to fight in the Revolutionary War.

Gallery Interpretation Manager Tyler Putman will discuss how women made and wore pockets tied beneath their gowns and show examples of original pockets as he leads participants in making their own with historically accurate materials and sewing techniques.

Registered participants will receive materials by mail or can pick up the materials at the Museum. No prior sewing experience is required. Participants will need an internet connection, microphone, and webcam.

Registration is $75 for general admission and $50 for Museum Members (price includes materials and shipping costs). Registration deadlines are Nov. 10 for mailed materials; Nov. 13 at 5 p.m. for pick-up materials. Register online here.

Looking ahead in the 2021 Artisan Workshop Series, workshop participants will have the chance to create their own flame-stitched pincushions in January. In March, in collaboration with the Monmouth County Historical Association, participants will recreate the “short gown” worn by Elizabeth “Betty” Dorn, a free African American resident of early New Jersey, which is featured in the Museum’s When Women Lost the Vote exhibition.

About Artisan Workshops
Artisan Workshops are taught by the Museum’s knowledgeable team of educators and makers, who have years of experience studying and recreating historical objects. Participants can learn the fundamentals of the time period’s apparel and what it reveals about the American Revolution while learning tricks of 18th-century trades and meeting other makers.

About When Women Lost the Vote: A Revolutionary Story, 1776 – 1807
In a groundbreaking new exhibition, the Museum of the American Revolution explores the little-known history of women and free people of color legally holding the right to vote in Revolutionary-era New Jersey for more than 30 years—and examines the political conflicts that led to their voting rights being stripped away in 1807. Featuring more than 65 original objects including textiles, works of art, and newly-discovered poll lists highlighting women voters from the period, the exhibition brings to life the forgotten stories of the women who first pioneered the vote and became role models for women's suffragists two generations later. The exhibition is integrated within the Museum’s permanent galleries and connected by an audio tour. It also will be made available to virtual visitors through a robust online experience. The exhibit is on view through April 25, 2021. It is included with regular Museum admission. More information here.

About Museum of the American Revolution
The Museum of the American Revolution uncovers and shares compelling stories about the diverse people and complex events that sparked America’s ongoing experiment in liberty, equality, and self-government. Through the Museum’s unmatched collection, immersive galleries, powerful theater experiences, and interactive elements, visitors gain a deeper appreciation for how this nation came to be and feel inspired to consider their role in ensuring that the promise of the American Revolution endures. Located just steps away from Independence Hall, the Museum serves as a portal to the region’s many Revolutionary sites, sparking interest, providing context, and encouraging exploration. The Museum, which opened on April 19, 2017, is a private, non-profit, and non-partisan organization. For more information, visit www.AmRevMuseum.org or call 877.740.1776.