Vintage 1930s George Washington Play & Pageant Costume Book, 1932 Bicentennial

Description: George Washington Play and Pageant Costume Book, published in 1931-32 by the United States George Washington Bicentennial Commission (the Bicentennial of Washington's birth, in 1732). This is a fun document of the 1930s idea of "authentic" 18th century costumes, military uniforms, etc.; it is especially interesting because the original owner added pages from a period mail-order catalog, showing the same costumes. This was an informational book, but the illustrated designs were also available as patterns and as finished garments; I found pages from a National Bella Hess catalog inside, showing the same designs (the most expensive was a ball gown in "beautiful Celanese taffeta."). These pages state that National was the authorized mail order distributor, and show two costumes that were intended for use by Boy Scouts and 4H clubs. There is also a bookmark with a reproduction of "Washington Surrendering his Commission" (also found in the book). 24 pages (plus covers), black and white printing, 2-color cover, 9 1/4" x 12 1/2" Copyright 1931 (second printing, 1932) Condition: Generally good, with some wear and soiling on cover, staples slightly rusty, name written on cover. The catalog pages are newsprint, a bit yellowed and getting fragile, with pencil writing, and have browned the inside back cover. Please contact me with any questions, and thanks for looking!

Price: 12 USD

Location: Lexington, Massachusetts

End Time: 2024-12-16T16:48:11.000Z

Shipping Cost: 4.63 USD