Breeches
Date1790-1795
MediumCotton, Pewter, Wood, Silk, Linen
DimensionsOutseam: 24 inches, Inseam: 17 1/4 inches, Waist: 30 inches
Credit LineMuseum Purchase
Object number2021-67
DescriptionUnlined cotton breeches with a satin stripe. There are four buttonholes at the close the garment at center front. Two on the waistband which are welted, one set in the seam between the waistband and the extension behind the fall, and one worked onto the fall extension. There are no pockets set into the legs of the breeches, however there is one watch or fob pocket on one side and a larger watch or fob style pocket on the other side that closes with a button. The waistband also has four buttons for braces or suspenders. Fall is lined with brown linen and also contains a loop to help keep the fall from gaping.ProvenanceThis pair of breeches 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.
