Matchcoat

"Fig. 1. wears the proper Indian Match-coat, which is made of Skins, drest with the Furr on, sowed together, and worn with the Furr inwards, having the edges also gashed for beauty sake. ... Fig 2. wears the Duffield Match-coat bought of the English"[1]

A matchcoat or match coat is an outer garment consisting of a length of coarse woolen cloth (stroud), usually about 2 metres (7 ft) long, worn wrapped around the upper part of the body like a toga.[2] Historically, they have been worn primarily by the Indigenous peoples of the Northeastern Woodlands in North America, who may still wear them as regalia or for traditional events. The matchcoat might be worn by people of either sex. It was a common article of trade by the English and French with the peoples of several Nations.

The matchcoat was usually fastened with a belt; no buttons or pins were used.[3] It could also serve as a blanket for sleeping.

The name "matchcoat" is a transliteration into English of an Algonquian word referring to clothing in general.[4]

  1. ^ Beverly, Robert (1705). The History and Present State of Virginia. Retrieved Oct 14, 2015.
  2. ^ Hobbs, Davy. "Handbook For Native Interpreters". Fort Toulouse - Fort Jackson. Retrieved Oct 14, 2015.[permanent dead link]
  3. ^ Cite error: The named reference Marshall was invoked but never defined (see the help page).
  4. ^ Becker, Marshall (1982). "Excavations at the Prinzhof". Bulletin: Eastern States Archeological Federation (63). Retrieved October 14, 2015.