Historic

Threads of Transition: The Archaeology of Dress, Girlhood, and Menstruation

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Abstract

Finding a pair of women's underwear in the garden of the historic St. James AME Zion church was very unexpected for the team of archaeologists excavating. However, this garment can provide key insights into the daily lives and sociocultural position of the congregation's past. Textiles are rare to find in archaeological contexts, especially a near-complete garment such as this one. By utilizing various qualitative and quantitative methods, including artifact and fiber analysis, replica pattern drafting, and integrating historical primary sources such as magazines, patents, and catalogs, this case study uncovers the story behind this garment. This mixed-methods research gives insight not only into the garment itself, but the life of the individual who may have worn and eventually discarded it. 

Keywords: History, Archaeology, Undergarments, Black History, Menstruation

How to Cite:

Orsinger, S. J. & Green, D. N., (2025) “Threads of Transition: The Archaeology of Dress, Girlhood, and Menstruation”, International Textile and Apparel Association Annual Conference Proceedings 82(1). doi: https://doi.org/10.31274/itaa.21832