NPS Photo

Eileen Trestain, a noted author and textiles expert, volunteers as the site's period clothing coordinator.

The clothing collection at the park consists of reproduction clothing for the primary historical periods interpreted at Fort Vancouver National Historic Site and the Vancouver National Historic Reserve.

Currently, the three main decades represented are the 1840s, 1850s, and 1860s. In future the collection will be expanded to include additional time periods.

There are currently over 1000 pieces, including outfits for men, women, children, and infants.

The available ensembles and accessories (including jewelry, hairpieces, hats, etc.) represent the various cultural affiliations and social standing of persons historically at Fort Vancouver, the McLoughlin House, and Vancouver Barracks.

NPS Photo

Volunteers sew many clothing items by hand, using patters and materials popular in the nineteenth century.

The clothing collection is only for use by park staff and volunteers in association with park programs, and is intended as a contribution to the historic scene and quality experiences for our visitors.

A dedicated volunteer crew fabricates and catalogs the clothing and other textile items used in special events.

For more information please contact Tessa Langford, curator, at 360-816-6252 or via e-mail.