I did some extensive research on mid-19th century skirt supports (corded petticoats, cage and covered crinolines, etc.) for a presentation last year. Based on manufacturing and sales records, crinolines were widely available and worn anywhere in the country, including the far west. This is amply supported by original photographs, extant crinolines, and commentary in period magazines, newspapers, letters and journals. The average retail price for a crinoline c. 1855-1865 was $0.25-$2.00 each, depending on the overall style and the number of steels.
Documentation indicates that the style spread quite rapidly across the country - within a few months at most. Carolann Schmitt [EMAIL PROTECTED] www.genteelarts.com Ladies & Gentlemen of the 1860s Conference, March 2-5, 2006 _______________________________________________ h-costume mailing list h-costume@mail.indra.com http://mail.indra.com/mailman/listinfo/h-costume
