Ceremonial clothing from the Sons of Temperance

Posted 9/18/26

Now for the Paul Harvey “rest of the story” for the Sons of Temperance article! When I published the first article a few weeks ago, it was to provide the basis for this one.

Do you remember …

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Ceremonial clothing from the Sons of Temperance

Posted

Now for the Paul Harvey “rest of the story” for the Sons of Temperance article! When I published the first article a few weeks ago, it was to provide the basis for this one.

Do you remember your first prom? I do and I rented my first tuxedo from Broadway Tailors in Newburgh. Amazingly, Nick Valentine is still going strong and looks great! He is also a knowledgeable and generous individual who helped make this article happen. Without the loan of a mannequin, displaying the items would not have been possible. Thanks, Nick!

I also have to mention the background for these photos is the Crawford House which is period correct for the clothing you are about to see. Okay, let’s get on with the tale.

A few years ago, a childhood friend showed me a number of clothing articles which had been handed down in her family. Included were ceremonial clothing items from the Sons of Temperance and the associated regalia. Take notice of the dress shirt with the removal collar and washboard front. If you wore these you were high fashion!

And George A. Stillwaggon was there! George, an ancestor of the Stillwaggon family in the Town of Newburgh, lived in Flushing back then. These are his duds and date back to circa 1875!

I do not know the meaning or significance of the apron or regalia and the Sons of Temperance organization has ceased to exist. Perhaps someone has more knowledge than me and will share it. Included are some sashes which he also proudly wore.

Along with his garments lovingly saved are ladies blouses and a dress. The mannequin was perfect to display the elegance of this clothing our ancestors wore. You may be able to view related items in museums, but what makes these special is that they are from a family in our Town of Newburgh.

This glimpse into the glamorous dress of 150 years ago gives me pause to look about and take note of the fashion statements people make today. I might be wrong, but I believe we’ve sacrificed style for comfort. So much for being suave, chic, and debonair. I’ll just slip on a clean t-shirt before heading out today in my jeans. Thanks for sharing these with us Joanne. Jeanne is smiling.