On Friday, Feb. 13, the Pensacola Museum of History opened a new exhibit entitled “Dressing History: Fabric of War,” located in the Textile Gallery on the second floor of the museum. Through the examination of uniforms and functional textiles, the exhibit focuses on fabric as a central component of military innovation, while also revealing how changing realities of war have direct consequences to chosen fabric material.
The military textiles that are displayed at the exhibit explore how fabrics have shaped the American military experience, from clothing soldiers wore, to materials that protected, concealed and supported them during war efforts. As the articles on display move from the mid-1800s to the modern day, guests can learn how fabrics directly evolved alongside changes in technology, the environment and global conflicts. Up-close looks at uniforms, functional textiles and accompanying accoutrements allow guests to discover the ingenuity behind designs of iconic military pieces.
“This exhibition highlights military textiles from the UWF Historic Trust Collection, many of which are rarely displayed,” said Jessie Cragg, curator of exhibits. “As a military town, Pensacola has a deep connection to this history, and the exhibit invites visitors to take a closer look at the uniforms and materials that shaped military life.”…