It is hard to overstate the role of textiles in early American life. Whether making or purchasing cloth, textiles drove America’s pre-Civil War economy. This presentation on 19th century cloth and clothing production will include details on textiles in pre-Civil War Illinois life, cotton’s place in the 19th century American economy, and the rise of the ready to wear clothing industry. 

All members of the public are welcome to attend “Behind the Beautiful Dress: Making Cloth and Clothing in the 19th Century.” The History Center’s Coffee Talks are a series of adult programs meant to invite public participation and discussion on a broad range of historical topics per the History Center’s mission.

This event is being produced by the Des Plaines History Center in partnership with Illinois Humanities. The Illinois Humanities Road Scholars Speakers Bureau invites Illinois authors, artists, and educators to share their expertise and enthusiasm with people throughout the state, enabling local nonprofit organizations to present free-admission cultural programs of high quality to their communities for a modest fee.

This program is also free thanks to generous sponsorship from Village Bank & Trust.