Threads of War

 

James Richmond discusses Threads of War exhibit

As the 250^th anniversary of the founding of our country on July 4 approaches, the latest exhibit at the Goochland Historical Society looks back at the uniforms worn by those defending our freedoms. Even before the Declaration was signed, colonists were at war with the British.

Society Executive Director James Richmond explained that uniforms and other military memorabilia donated to the Society led to creation of the exhibit.

“This captivating exhibit promises to be a remarkable journey through time, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of our nation's history through an extraordinary array of uniforms that highlight pivotal moments. With pieces sourced not only from the Society's collection but also from private collections on loan for this special event. Imagine standing before a Revolutionary War uniform, feeling the weight of its historical significance, or admiring the intricate details of a hand-painted World War II bomber jacket that embodies the spirit of bravery and sacrifice. This exhibit serves as an invitation to reflect on the sacrifices made by those who served, honoring their legacy while inspiring future generations. Join us in celebrating these remarkable pieces of history that forge a vital connection to our past and ignite a sense of hope for the future.”

Thanks to a generous grant from the Roller-Bottomore Foundation, (https://www.rollerbottimorefoundation.org/) the Society was able to obtain a reproduction Revolutionary War era Continental Line uniform and repair other items in the Society collection. There are a few reproductions, but most artifacts on display are original. These include a uniform from the Spanish American War worn by a very diminutive soldier; World War I uniforms; and several from World War II, including the hand-painted flight jacket of a son of Goochland who will be forever young.

Uniforms of our British Allies in Twentieth Century wars; a Viet Nam era Women’s Army Corps (WAC) uniform, donated by Sue Weeks, from the time before women were integrated into the Army; and Scott Johnson’s Navy Dress Whites are showcased.

Insignia, several types of headgear, photos of the men who wore the uniforms, and a selection of wartime memorabilia complete the glimpse into past wars.

Colleen Callahan, of The Costume & Textile Specialist, and former curator of costumes and textiles at the Valentine Museum in Richmond, explained techniques she used to restore the items to pristine condition. Pieces of socks were used to bring the knitted cuffs and waistband of the leather flight jacket back to almost original condition. Callahan explained that she uses “hair silk” thread, so named because it is thin as a human hair, to make moth holes and other fabric damage disappear. Her repair to one of the WWI uniforms was so exquisite that she was unable to find it.

Textile restorer Colleen Callahan explains how she uses socks to repair the knitted waistband on a WWII bomber jacket

Thread of War runs from March 31 to August 31. The Goochland Historical Society is located at 2924 River Road West adjoining the Courthouse Green. Hours are 10-3 Wednesday to Friday and 10-3 on the second Saturday of the month.