Waistcoat
Date1790-1824
MediumSilk, cotton, linen
DimensionsChest: 42 in.; Waist: 40 in.; Center Front: 18 in.; Center Back: 24.5 in.
Credit LineMuseum Purchase
Object number2020-12
DescriptionA double-breasted waistcoat with very large shawl or round collar. The waistcoat is made from a cotton woven with a supplementary weft to create the gold spots. The back and lining are made of plain-woven cotton. Two functioning cross pockets are set on in the middle of the waistcoat fronts. The waistcoat closes down the center front with 11 buttons and buttonholes, with one functioning button and buttonhole on the bottom body right, probably to aid in keeping the hem even. An 18th century pin was found in the center front hem. The pin was left in place and not removed.ProvenanceThis coat came from the family of Thomas Crewe Dodd Esq (1754-1827) of Edge Hall, Malpas, Cheshire, England. In August 1775 at the age of 21, Thomas began his military career in the 16th (Queen’s) Light Dragoons as a Cornet. He went to America in August 1776, under Lieutenant George John Burgoyne and returned back to England two years later. Thomas was promoted to Lieutenant in 21st Regiment of Light Dragoons and made Captain in the 23rd Regiment of Light Dragoons on September 28, 1781. The 23rd Light Dragoons were deployed to India in 1782 and on July 27, 1785 Dodd was promoted to Major. Dodd left military life in 1786 and returned to his Cheshire estate. He took part in the formation of the Cheshire Provincial Cavalry in 1798 and was commanding officer of the Western Cheshire Yeomanry raised in 1803. He married Anne, daughter of Ralf Sneyd of Keele. They had five daughters and two boys.
