When I first agreed to write this article for my dear friend Bob, I thought how great it would be to share my love and knowledge of nineteenth century clothing.  After giving a general run down on the typical outer wear and underclothing;  I would like to change topics briefly.  Over the years I have felt this injustice deeply.

When I first started re-enacting years ago I was flooded with "friendly advice" from ladies meaning well.  But most of the advice conflicted.  This is where my quest began to search for truth on my own and taking advice with a grain of salt.  When I started, information was scarce.  Only bits and pieces in large fashion books.  After viewing book upon book, reading extensively, and studying many period photographs I am now able to relay this information to readers.  But what is strikingly alarming is the amount of ladies in re-enacting still leading others astray.

For instance:  A friend relayed this story to me.  She had a friend who was a sutler, one morning a group of ladies led by a single lady came into her sutlery.  The head lady began pointing out the different jewelry, saying they wore this, oh they didn't wear that.  Of course this upset the owner who set the record straight.  It is distressing that people would lead others astray to make themselves appear knowledgeable.  The fact is that many ladies during the Civil War era (before and after) could not afford store bought jewelry so they fashioned their own.  So there were many different styles.  Yes they had hoop earrings and yes they had posts;  two of the misleadings I have had relayed to me recently.

I do not pretend to be a know all.  I only want to help further the education of others who may not have the time or resources.  I too still am learning everyday.  So I ask you all to please be careful for the sake of historical accuracy not to give advice unless you are absolutely one hundred percent sure of the information.  As a result of my being misinformed years ago I have a half a dozen incorrect dresses hanging in my closet.  In this hobby a bad piece of advice can be costly.

A few of you have expressed interest in corresponding with me.  Unfortunately at this time I am still trying to get the bugs worked out of my email.  In the meantime, I am using a relative's and do not wish to flood her system.  I will relay the information to Bob as soon as the problems are worked out.

Thank you, Fredricka Zimmerman