Clothing & Accessories

Women's Gown (cheong sam) ca. 1930

Work, play, fashion, economic class, religious faith, even politics—all these aspects of American life and more are woven into clothing. The Museum cares for one of the nation's foremost collections of men's, women's, and children's garments and accessories—from wedding gowns and military uniforms to Halloween costumes and bathing suits.

The collections include work uniforms, academic gowns, clothing of presidents and first ladies, T-shirts bearing protest slogans, and a clean-room "bunny suit" from a manufacturer of computer microchips. Beyond garments, the collections encompass jewelry, handbags, hair dryers, dress forms, hatboxes, suitcases, salesmen's samples, and thousands of fashion prints, photographs, and original illustrations. The more than 30,000 artifacts here represent the changing appearance of Americans from the 1700s to the present day.

Place: United States

Necktie, worn by Doc Cheatham

This necktie was made by “Jane,” undetermined place and date. It is a hand-made necktie made of white fabric with a cream-colored fabric lining. This necktie was previously worn by jazz musician Adolphus "Doc" Cheatham.
Description

This necktie was made by “Jane,” undetermined place and date. It is a hand-made necktie made of white fabric with a cream-colored fabric lining. This necktie was previously worn by jazz musician Adolphus "Doc" Cheatham. There are numerous signatures in black ink on the front of the tie, one is dated “85.” There is an embroidered label:

FASHIONED
AND
HAND MADE BY
JANE

Adolphus Anthony “Doc” Cheatham (1905-1997), first learned to play saxophone as well as trumpet. Early in his career, Cheatham performed with the African American Vaudeville theater in Nashville. Around 1924, Cheatham moved to Chicago where he heard trumpeters King Oliver and Louis Armstrong, both would have a lifelong influence on Cheatham’s playing.

Cheatham performed with several jazz musicians including Benny Carter, Fletcher Henderson, and Benny Goodman throughout the 1930s to the 1960s. In the 1970s, Cheatham worked to improve his playing by recording and listening to himself. After the age of 70, Cheatham’s self-assessment work would result in him receiving his best acclamations and critical reviews.

Location
Currently not on view
date made
mid 1980s
user
Cheatham, Doc
ID Number
2002.0218.05
accession number
2002.0218
catalog number
2002.0218.05

Helmet Frontpiece, “McLean Engine 3”

The frontpiece (also known as shield or badge) of firefighting helmets has been a distinctive part of the American firefighter’s helmet since it was developed by Henry Gratacap in the early 19th century. These frontpieces displayed a variety of information.
Description (Brief)
The frontpiece (also known as shield or badge) of firefighting helmets has been a distinctive part of the American firefighter’s helmet since it was developed by Henry Gratacap in the early 19th century. These frontpieces displayed a variety of information. The fire company's name and number appeared, often alongside the city or town where it was based. The frontpiece could also include the owner's initials and rank. Most fire helmets had leather frontpieces, but frontpieces could also be made of metal, especially on presentation helmets or those worn in parades.
This frontpiece was made during the early 20th century. At the top of the red leather frontpiece are two dark brown banners with white leather lettering that reads “McLEAN/ENGINE.” A large white leather “3” is in the center of the piece, below it is a recessed cartouche with a dark brown background. White leather initials “HPS” originally were in the cartouche, but the “H” is missing a stem, and the “P” is completely absent.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
early 20th century
maker
unknown
ID Number
2005.0233.1492
accession number
2005.0233
catalog number
2005.0233.1492

Helmet Frontpiece, “2461 7 PFD”

The frontpiece (also known as shield or badge) of firefighting helmets has been a distinctive part of the American firefighter’s helmet since it was developed by Henry Gratacap in the early 19th century. These frontpieces displayed a variety of information.
Description (Brief)
The frontpiece (also known as shield or badge) of firefighting helmets has been a distinctive part of the American firefighter’s helmet since it was developed by Henry Gratacap in the early 19th century. These frontpieces displayed a variety of information. The fire company's name and number appeared, often alongside the city or town where it was based. The frontpiece could also include the owner's initials and rank. Most fire helmets had leather frontpieces, but frontpieces could also be made of metal, especially on presentation helmets or those worn in parades.
This patent leather frontpiece was made by Cairns & Brother of New York, New York around 1939. The black frontpiece of Ladder 7 of the Philadelphia Fire Department has an upper and lower banner with a white background. The banners read “2461/PFD” in painted red letters. A red leather number “7” is stitched in the center of the piece, with a red leather hook and ladder crossed behind it.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
ca 1939
maker
Cairns & Brother
ID Number
2005.0233.1498
accession number
2005.0233
catalog number
2005.0233.1498

Academic Robe, worn by Ella Fitzgerald

Currently not on view
Location
Currently not on view
user
Fitzgerald, Ella
manufacturer
Cotrell and Leonard
ID Number
1996.0342.014
accession number
1996.0342
catalog number
1996.0342.014

chemise, shift

Currently not on view
Location
Currently not on view
Date made
1764 - 1774
ID Number
CS.006730
catalog number
006730
accession number
28810

Pliers

Slip Joint Pliers are for gripping round work, such as pipes and nuts. These pliers are made of steel, have an adjustable grip and yellow plastic covered handles. Made by Fuller Tools. Fuller first started in Whitestone New York in the 1930's.
Description
Slip Joint Pliers are for gripping round work, such as pipes and nuts. These pliers are made of steel, have an adjustable grip and yellow plastic covered handles. Made by Fuller Tools. Fuller first started in Whitestone New York in the 1930's. In 1944 two Canadian brothers, Stanley and Lloyd Davis set up production and made tools near Montreal. In the early 1990's, Fuller moved to Montreal and the US manufacturing facility was consolidated with the Canadian facility. These pliers were used by Jillian Gross while working for Habitat for Humanity, a not-for-profit, non-government organization advocating affordable housing around the world.
When Hurricane Katrina struck the Gulf Coast in August 2005, Jillian Gross had worked with Habitat for Humanity for three years learning woodworking and house-building skills. Groups such as Habitat for Humanity marshaled volunteers, tools and lumber to step in when it became clear that normal avenues of housing assistance were overwhelmed.
In November 2005, Habitat for Humanity launched “America Builds on the National Mall,” a demonstration house-building marathon in Washington, D.C. in which the basic components of 51 homes were assembled within a week and shipped to the Gulf Coast. Upon completion of the project Ms. Gross, one of the house building leaders during this event, donated her tool belt, tools and protective wear to the Smithsonian Institution. The plyers were found in the tool belt.
Location
Currently not on view
ID Number
2005.0276.23
catalog number
2005.0276.23
accession number
2005.0276

Fire Helmet, "John Stagg, Chief Engineer, P.F.D."

The traditional American leather firefighter’s helmet with its distinctive long rear brim, frontpiece, and crest adornment was first developed around 1821-1836 in New York City. Henry T.
Description
The traditional American leather firefighter’s helmet with its distinctive long rear brim, frontpiece, and crest adornment was first developed around 1821-1836 in New York City. Henry T. Gratacap, a New York City luggage maker by trade, is often credited as the developer of this style of fire helmet. Gratacap created a specially treated leather helmet with a segmented “comb” design that led to unparalleled durability and strength. The elongated rear brim (also known as a duckbill or beavertail) and frontpiece were 19th century innovations that remain the most identifiable feature of firefighter’s helmets. The body of the helmet was primarily designed to deflect falling debris, the rear brim prevented water from running down firefighters’ backs, and their sturdy crowns could aid, if necessary, in breaking windows.
This leather fire helmet was made by Cairns & Brother of New York, New York during the late19th century. The helmet consists of 64 combs and is painted white. There is an ivy vine scroll pattern around the brim and a small metal frontpiece on the rear brim that is engraved. A metal eagle’s head frontpiece holder is mounted on the top of the helmet’s crown. The gold leather frontpiece has a central image of a steam powered fire engine, with the text “CHIEF/ENGINEER/P.F.D.” The helmet belonged to John Stagg of the Paterson, New Jersey fire department. Stagg served as Chief Engineer of the Volunteer Fire Department from 1887 until 1889, and was made chief of the paid Paterson Fire Department in 1891.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
late 19th century
maker
Cairns & Brother
ID Number
2005.0233.0207
accession number
2005.0233
catalog number
2005.0233.0207

Hat, worn by Ella Fitzgerald

Made of red-dyed woven straw. This pillbox hat is from the ensemble worn by jazz vocalist, Ella Fitzgerald, in an American Express Card advertisement, photographed by Annie Liebovitz. Label inside the hat:MORGAN TAYLORCurrently not on view
Description

Made of red-dyed woven straw. This pillbox hat is from the ensemble worn by jazz vocalist, Ella Fitzgerald, in an American Express Card advertisement, photographed by Annie Liebovitz. Label inside the hat:

MORGAN TAYLOR

Location
Currently not on view
advertiser
American Express Company
wearer
Fitzgerald, Ella
ID Number
1996.0342.008
accession number
1996.0342
catalog number
1996.0342.008

United War Work Campaign Pin

Straight pin-back United War Work Campaign pin. The pin is a flat, white square with a blue circle.
Description (Brief)
Straight pin-back United War Work Campaign pin. The pin is a flat, white square with a blue circle. Text in the circle says “United War Work Campaign.” Within the circle is a red shield that says “For The Boys Over There.”
The United War Work Campaign was a joint effort undertaken by seven voluntary organizations active during World War I: the National War Work Council of the YMCA, the War Work Council of the YWCA, the National Catholic War Council (Knights of Columbus), the Jewish Welfare Board, the War Camp Community Service, the American Library Association, and the Salvation Army. The aim of the campaign was for these seven organizations to raise at least $170,500,000 in subscriptions and pledges during the week of November 11–18, 1918, to help boost American soldiers’ morale and provide them with recreational activities.
Much like the use of military insignia to identify its wearer (by association with an organization) and his/her achievements, these pins and buttons were meant to be worn by Americans on the home front during World War I to show their membership in an organization and/or their contribution to a particular war effort, such as the United War Work Campaign. The pins and buttons displayed the wearer’s patriotism and generosity and undoubtedly also served to prompt others to become similarly involved in the various war efforts.
SOURCE:
“United War Work Campaign,” Committee on Public Information, Bulletin 42, 1918.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1918
maker
Whitehead & Hoag Company
ID Number
2006.0098.0255
accession number
2006.0098
catalog number
2006.0098.0255

cap

Currently not on view
Location
Currently not on view
Date made
1790 - 1810
ID Number
CS.006700B
catalog number
006700B
accession number
28810

William Ellery model Pocketwatch

During the Civil War Army physician Dr. G. D. O'Farrell received this watch as a gift from grateful patients.In the 1850s watchmakers at what would become the American Watch Company of Waltham, Massachusetts, developed the world's first machine-made watches.
Description
During the Civil War Army physician Dr. G. D. O'Farrell received this watch as a gift from grateful patients.
In the 1850s watchmakers at what would become the American Watch Company of Waltham, Massachusetts, developed the world's first machine-made watches. They completely redesigned the watch so that its movement could be assembled from interchangeable parts made on specialized machines invented just for that purpose. They also developed a highly organized factory-based work system to speed production and cut costs.
In its first decade, the firm's work was largely experimental and the firm's finances were unsteady. The name of the company changed repeatedly as investors came and went. Operations moved from Roxbury to Waltham in 1854, and the Panic of 1857 brought bankruptcy and a new owner, Royal Robbins. Reorganization and recovery began, and output reached fourteen thousand watches in 1858.
Renamed the American Watch Company the next year, the firm was on the brink of success from an unexpected quarter. During the Civil War, Waltham's watch factory designed and mass-produced a low-cost watch, the William Ellery model. Selling for an unbelievable $13.00, these watches became a fad with Union soldiers. Just as itinerant peddlers had aroused the desire for inexpensive clocks, roving merchants sold thousands of cheap watches to eager customers in wartime encampments. By 1865, the year the war ended, William Ellery movements represented almost 45 per cent of Waltham's unit sales.
This William Ellery model watch was a gift to Army surgeon G. D. O'Farrell from his patients at White Hall, a Civil War hospital near Philadelphia. The inscription on the dust cover of O'Farrell's watch reads: "White Hall USA Gen'l Hospital, Feb. 15, 1865 Presented to Dr. G. D. O'Farrell, USA by the patients of Ward C as a token of regard & respect for his ability as a surgeon and unswerving integrity as a man."
Location
Currently not on view
Date made
1864
presentation
1865
maker
American Waltham Watch Co.
ID Number
1987.0853.01
catalog number
1987.0853.01
accession number
1987.0853

Man's Two-Piece Suit

The donor purchased this navy-blue wool double-breasted two-piece suit on Wilshire Boulevard in Los Angeles in early 1945. He wore it for his 1945 high school class picture and graduation ceremony in Los Angeles, California.
Description
The donor purchased this navy-blue wool double-breasted two-piece suit on Wilshire Boulevard in Los Angeles in early 1945. He wore it for his 1945 high school class picture and graduation ceremony in Los Angeles, California. He continued to wear the suit until he entered the navy in July of 1945. The May 1945 issue of Esquire magazine featured a similar suit, claiming that jackets with buttons set low were accepted by men conscious of the subtleties of fashion. They also noted that a double-breasted jacket with low buttons and long lapels accentuated the height of the wearer.
While not every man owned a suit in pre-Civil War America, the development of the ready-to-wear industry in the United States made the purchase of a suit possible for most men by the end of the 19th century. The availability of ready-made suits at a reasonable price was helped by the shift from the more formal frock coat and trousers of the 19th century to the more relaxed fit of the sack coat. It is the sack suit or lounge suit, a business suit made of wool with a loose fitting single or double-breasted jacket that dominated men's fashion throughout the 20th century and into the 21st.
Location
Currently not on view
Date made
1945
user
Morgan, Jr., Arthur A.
ID Number
CS.316499.001
catalog number
316499.001
accession number
316499

Carpenter's Pencil

This pencil was grouped with a number of pencils found in the pocket of a tool belt used by Jillian Gross while working for Habitat for Humanity, a not-for-profit, non-government organization advocating affordable housing around the world.
Description
This pencil was grouped with a number of pencils found in the pocket of a tool belt used by Jillian Gross while working for Habitat for Humanity, a not-for-profit, non-government organization advocating affordable housing around the world. Carpenter pencils have two wide, flat sides to keep them from rolling. The graphite core is generally wide and flat, making it easy to mark course materials when using the flat side while using the thinner side for precision marks.
When Hurricane Katrina struck the Gulf Coast in August 2005, Jillian Gross had worked with Habitat for Humanity for three years learning woodworking and house-building skills. Groups such as Habitat for Humanity marshaled volunteers, tools and lumber to step in when it became clear that normal avenues of housing assistance were overwhelmed.
In November 2005, Habitat for Humanity launched “America Builds on the National Mall,” a demonstration house-building marathon in Washington, D.C. in which the basic components of 51 homes were assembled within a week and shipped to the Gulf Coast. Upon completion of the project Ms. Gross, one of the house building leaders during this event, donated her tool belt, tools and protective wear to the Smithsonian Institution.
Location
Currently not on view
ID Number
2005.0276.27
catalog number
2005.0276.27
accession number
2005.0276

Glazier Knife

The glazier knife has multiple uses: scraping, roller squeegee, spackle spreader, crack or crevice cleaner and can opener. Made by Warner Manufacturing Company, Plymouth, Minnesota, makers of hand and edge tools and light equipment.
Description
The glazier knife has multiple uses: scraping, roller squeegee, spackle spreader, crack or crevice cleaner and can opener. Made by Warner Manufacturing Company, Plymouth, Minnesota, makers of hand and edge tools and light equipment. It was used by Jillian Gross while working for Habitat for Humanity, a not-for-profit, non-government organization advocating affordable housing around the world.
When Hurricane Katrina struck the Gulf Coast in August 2005, Jillian Gross had worked with Habitat for Humanity for three years learning woodworking and house-building skills. Groups such as Habitat for Humanity marshaled volunteers, tools and lumber to step in when it became clear that normal avenues of housing assistance were overwhelmed.
In November 2005, Habitat for Humanity launched “America Builds on the National Mall,” a demonstration house-building marathon in Washington, D.C. in which the basic components of 51 homes were assembled within a week and shipped to the Gulf Coast. Upon completion of the project Ms. Gross, one of the house building leaders during this event, donated her tool belt, tools and protective wear to the Smithsonian Institution. The glazier knife was kept in the pocket of a tool belt.
Location
Currently not on view
ID Number
2005.0276.25
catalog number
2005.0276.25
accession number
2005.0276

Retractable Utility Knife

A utility knife is a general purpose cutting tool. This knife has a retractable steel blade and a red painted aluminum holder. It was made in China for the American home improvement store Lowe's Task Force brand.
Description
A utility knife is a general purpose cutting tool. This knife has a retractable steel blade and a red painted aluminum holder. It was made in China for the American home improvement store Lowe's Task Force brand. The manufacturering company that produces their tools can vary from year to year. The knife was used by Jillian Gross while working for Habitat for Humanity, a not-for-profit, non-government organization advocating affordable housing around the world.
When Hurricane Katrina struck the Gulf Coast in August 2005, Jillian Gross had worked with Habitat for Humanity for three years learning woodworking and house-building skills. Groups such as Habitat for Humanity marshaled volunteers, tools and lumber to step in when it became clear that normal avenues of housing assistance were overwhelmed.
In November 2005, Habitat for Humanity launched “America Builds on the National Mall,” a demonstration house-building marathon in Washington, D.C. in which the basic components of 51 homes were assembled within a week and shipped to the Gulf Coast. Upon completion of the project Ms. Gross, one of the house building leaders during this event, donated her tool belt, tools and protective wear to the Smithsonian Institution. The notebook was kept in the pocket of a tool belt.
Location
Currently not on view
ID Number
2005.0276.21
catalog number
2005.0276.21
accession number
2005.0276

Ball Point Ink Pen

This pen was used by Jillian Gross while working for Habitat for Humanity, a not-for-profit, non-government organization advocating affordable housing around the world.
Description
This pen was used by Jillian Gross while working for Habitat for Humanity, a not-for-profit, non-government organization advocating affordable housing around the world. This red transparent plastic pen has a rubber grip, retractable point and pocket clip.
When Hurricane Katrina struck the Gulf Coast in August 2005, Jillian Gross had worked with Habitat for Humanity for three years learning woodworking and house-building skills. Groups such as Habitat for Humanity marshaled volunteers, tools and lumber to step in when it became clear that normal avenues of housing assistance were overwhelmed.
In November 2005, Habitat for Humanity launched “America Builds on the National Mall,” a demonstration house-building marathon in Washington, D.C. in which the basic components of 51 homes were assembled within a week and shipped to the Gulf Coast. Upon completion of the project Ms. Gross, one of the house building leaders during this event, donated her tool belt, tools and protective wear to the Smithsonian Institution. The pen was kept with her notebook.
Location
Currently not on view
ID Number
2005.0276.36
catalog number
2005.0276.36
accession number
2005.0276

Common Nail Hammer

This general purpose or common hammer is used for pounding nails and prying nails or other light material such as molding. The hammer is all one forged steel piece with a blue nylon grip. It has a smooth striking face and straight claw.
Description
This general purpose or common hammer is used for pounding nails and prying nails or other light material such as molding. The hammer is all one forged steel piece with a blue nylon grip. It has a smooth striking face and straight claw. It was used by Jillian Gross while working for Habitat for Humanity, a not-for-profit, non-government organization advocating affordable housing around the world.
When Hurricane Katrina struck the Gulf Coast in August 2005, Jillian Gross had worked with Habitat for Humanity for three years learning woodworking and house-building skills. Groups such as Habitat for Humanity marshaled volunteers, tools and lumber to step in when it became clear that normal avenues of housing assistance were overwhelmed.
In November 2005, Habitat for Humanity launched “America Builds on the National Mall,” a demonstration house-building marathon in Washington, D.C. in which the basic components of 51 homes were assembled within a week and trucked off to the Gulf Coast. Upon completion of the project Ms. Gross, one of the house building leaders during this event, donated her tool belt, tools and protective wear to the Smithsonian Institution.
Location
Currently not on view
maker
Estwing
ID Number
2005.0276.10
catalog number
2005.0276.10
accession number
2005.0276

Double End Nail Puller

This nail puller, also referred to as a cat's paw, is designed to pull out nails and for light demolition. The length has a hexagonal shape, each end is curved, tapered and slotted.
Description
This nail puller, also referred to as a cat's paw, is designed to pull out nails and for light demolition. The length has a hexagonal shape, each end is curved, tapered and slotted. It was used by Jillian Gross while working for Habitat for Humanity, a not-for-profit, non-government organization advocating affordable housing around the world.
When Hurricane Katrina struck the Gulf Coast in August 2005, Jillian Gross had worked with Habitat for Humanity for three years learning woodworking and house-building skills. Groups such as Habitat for Humanity marshaled volunteers, tools and lumber to step in when it became clear that normal avenues of housing assistance were overwhelmed.
In November 2005, Habitat for Humanity launched “America Builds on the National Mall,” a demonstration house-building marathon in Washington, D.C. in which the basic components of 51 homes were assembled within a week and shipped to the Gulf Coast. Upon completion of the project Ms. Gross, one of the house building leaders during this event, donated her tool belt, tools and protective wear to the Smithsonian Institution.
Location
Currently not on view
ID Number
2005.0276.12
catalog number
2005.0276.12
accession number
2005.0276

Small Pry Bar

This short flat pry bar is for pulling nails and performing light work such as prying paneling or molding. Both ends are curved and slotted.
Description
This short flat pry bar is for pulling nails and performing light work such as prying paneling or molding. Both ends are curved and slotted. It was used by Jillian Gross while working for Habitat for Humanity, a not-for-profit, non-government organization advocating affordable housing around the world.
When Hurricane Katrina struck the Gulf Coast in August 2005, Jillian Gross had worked with Habitat for Humanity for three years learning woodworking and house-building skills. Groups such as Habitat for Humanity marshaled volunteers, tools and lumber to step in when it became clear that normal avenues of housing assistance were overwhelmed.
In November 2005, Habitat for Humanity launched “America Builds on the National Mall,” a demonstration house-building marathon in Washington, D.C. in which the basic components of 51 homes were assembled within a week and shipped to the Gulf Coast. Upon completion of the project Ms. Gross, one of the house building leaders during this event, donated her tool belt, tools and protective wear to the Smithsonian Institution.
Location
Currently not on view
ID Number
2005.0276.19
catalog number
2005.0276.19
accession number
2005.0276

S-Clip

This belt clip was distributed in a Swanson speed square package. The clip hooks on to a belt and holds a speed square or other tools.
Description
This belt clip was distributed in a Swanson speed square package. The clip hooks on to a belt and holds a speed square or other tools. It was used by Jillian Gross while working for Habitat for Humanity, a not-for-profit, non-government organization advocating affordable housing around the world.
When Hurricane Katrina struck the Gulf Coast in August 2005, Jillian Gross had worked with Habitat for Humanity for three years learning woodworking and house-building skills. Groups such as Habitat for Humanity marshaled volunteers, tools and lumber to step in when it became clear that normal avenues of housing assistance were overwhelmed.
In November 2005, Habitat for Humanity launched “America Builds on the National Mall,” a demonstration house-building marathon in Washington, D.C. in which the basic components of 51 homes were assembled within a week and shipped to the Gulf Coast. Upon completion of the project Ms. Gross, one of the house building leaders during this event, donated her tool belt, tools and protective wear to the Smithsonian Institution.
Location
Currently not on view
ID Number
2005.0276.17
catalog number
2005.0276.17
accession number
2005.0276

Small Pry Bar

This short, flat pry bar is for pulling nails and performing light work such as prying paneling or molding. Both ends are curved and slotted.
Description
This short, flat pry bar is for pulling nails and performing light work such as prying paneling or molding. Both ends are curved and slotted. It was used by Jillian Gross while working for Habitat for Humanity, a not-for-profit, non-government organization advocating affordable housing around the world.
When Hurricane Katrina struck the Gulf Coast in August 2005, Jillian Gross had worked with Habitat for Humanity for three years learning woodworking and house-building skills. Groups such as Habitat for Humanity marshaled volunteers, tools and lumber to step in when it became clear that normal avenues of housing assistance were overwhelmed.
In November 2005, Habitat for Humanity launched “America Builds on the National Mall,” a demonstration house-building marathon in Washington, D.C. in which the basic components of 51 homes were assembled within a week and shipped to the Gulf Coast. Upon completion of the project Ms. Gross, one of the house building leaders during this event, donated her tool belt, tools and protective wear to the Smithsonian Institution.
Location
Currently not on view
ID Number
2005.0276.18
catalog number
2005.0276.18
accession number
2005.0276

Protective Jumpsuit

This jumpsuit was worn by a scientist from Advanced Genetic Systems during the first release of genetically modified microorganisms into the environment approved by the federal government.The organisms, a genetically modified version of naturally occurring bacteria from the genus
Description (Brief)
This jumpsuit was worn by a scientist from Advanced Genetic Systems during the first release of genetically modified microorganisms into the environment approved by the federal government.
The organisms, a genetically modified version of naturally occurring bacteria from the genus Pseudomonas, were sprayed on test fields of strawberry plants in Monterey County, Calif., to increase their resistance to frost.
In nature, Pseudomonas can be found on the surface of many plants. The bacteria contribute to problems with frost on crops because they produce a protein that promotes the formation of ice. In hopes of reducing frost damage to crops, scientist Steve Lindow at the University of California altered the bacteria to stop producing this protein. The University patented these “ice-minus” bacteria and licensed the technology to Advanced Genetic Systems, a company based in Oakland, Calif. AGS hoped to bring the bacteria to market as an ice-proofing spray for crops called “Frostban.”
After careful review, the U.S. government approved field tests of Frostban. Despite the review, public fear of releasing these bacteria into the environment remained. Some scientists raised concerns that the ice-minus bacteria could replace the natural bacterial population. Because of their ice-forming abilities, the natural bacteria play a role in the creation of precipitation. This fact led some to worry that damage to the natural population could have repercussions for rainfall and weather patterns.
Activists against Frostban broke into test fields and uprooted plants to be sprayed several times throughout the field trials. After four years of tests, Frostban was found to be effective in reducing frost damage to crops. Due to continued public discomfort with genetically modified organisms, however, AGS never marketed the product. The company feared that the expense of fighting legal battles to get it to market would outweigh possible profit.
Sources:
“Public Fears Factored Into Gene-Altered Bacteria Tests.” Griffin, Katherine. The Los Angeles Times. April 18, 1988. p. AOC11.
“Bacteria on the Loose.” Fox, Michael W. The Washington Post. November 26, 1985. p. A16.
“Chapter 5: Ecological Considerations.” Office of Technology Assessment, Congress of the United States. Field-Testing Engineered Organisms: Genetic and Ecological Issues. 2002. pp.94–95.
“Chapter 4: The Release of a Genetically Engineered Microorganism.” Schacter, Bernice Zeldin. Issues and Dilemmas of Biotechnology: A Reference Guide. 1999.
Location
Currently not on view
ID Number
1987.0770.01
accession number
1987.0770
catalog number
1987.0770.01

Fire Helmet, "Mitchell IV Fire Co."

The traditional American leather firefighter’s helmet with its distinctive long rear brim, frontpiece, and crest adornment was first developed around 1821-1836 in New York City. Henry T.
Description
The traditional American leather firefighter’s helmet with its distinctive long rear brim, frontpiece, and crest adornment was first developed around 1821-1836 in New York City. Henry T. Gratacap, a New York City luggage maker by trade, is often credited as the developer of this style of fire helmet. Gratacap created a specially treated leather helmet with a segmented “comb” design that led to unparalleled durability and strength. The elongated rear brim (also known as a duckbill or beavertail) and frontpiece were 19th century innovations that remain the most identifiable feature of firefighter’s helmets. The body of the helmet was primarily designed to deflect falling debris, the rear brim prevented water from running down firefighters’ backs, and their sturdy crowns could aid, if necessary, in breaking windows.
This leather fire helmet was made by Cairns & Brother of New York, New York in the early 19th century. The leather helmet is painted black with eight combs and ivy vine scroll work around the helmet’s brim. The back of the helmet has the initials “FA” flanking a fire hydrant painted in gold. This was the logo of the Fire Association of Philadelphia, an insurance company founded by a group of eleven volunteer engine companies and five volunteer hose companies in 1817. The metal frontpiece holder is in the shape of a fox, and holds a black and red frontpiece that reads “MITCHELL/IV/FIRE CO” in white text. Mitchell Fire Company No. 4 was founded in 1874 by shoemakers who were located on Federal Street in Burlington, New Jersey. The frontpiece is not original to the helmet.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1825
maker
Cairns & Brother
ID Number
2005.0233.0171
accession number
2005.0233
catalog number
2005.0233.0171

William. B. Reed

Black and white print; bust portrait of a man (William Bradford Reed). Facsimile of sitter's signature is below the image.Currently not on view
Description (Brief)
Black and white print; bust portrait of a man (William Bradford Reed). Facsimile of sitter's signature is below the image.
Location
Currently not on view
Date made
ca 1855
depicted
Reed, William Bradford
maker
Wagner & McGuigan
Traubel, Morris H.
ID Number
DL.60.3128
catalog number
60.3128
accession number
228146

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