On Sat, 12 Jul 2008 Sgt42RHR@a... wrote:

> Actually the wearing of coats by labourers depends on the century. In
> the 1 8th century--even late 18th century-- men, of almost all
> stations of life, would have been in a state of undress unless they
> were wearing their coats. Almost all period images of 18th century
> workers...with the possible exception of farm hands, are shown wearing
> breeches (short pants), shirt, waistcoat, and coat. Even the most
> cursory glance of PA and VA Gazette "Had On & Took With Them" runaway
> advertisements reveals that even indentured servant laborers were last
> seen in their coats.

Wouldn't they have been hot as hell in the warmer months?

        -- Andy Barss
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