Last Fall, the Nerds posted an image of the Obadiah Mead jacket on our Facebook page. This 18th-century jacket is in the Greenwich, Connecticut Historical Society collection. The striped linen jacket survives with the provenance that it was worn by a man or older teen named Obadiah Mead on the day he was killed by British soldiers who raided Greenwich during the Revolutionary War.
Shortly after our post went live, Jess Bruce, a talented reenactor and all-around fantastic person, contacted us. Jess informed us that they had been working closely with a historical tailor and 18th-century historian to reproduce the coat and wanted to share their research on the coat and the story of Obadiah Mead with us.
The Nerds are HUGE fans of Jess’ work so naturally, we said, “Heck yes!” We invited Jess to participate in a Q&A to discuss recreating the Obadiah Mead jacket.
So, without further delay, let’s take a deep dive with Jess to learn about the jacket and the efforts to reproduce this vital piece of American history.
Tell the Nerds a little about yourself and your activities within the Living History and Historical Research communities.
I have been fascinated with history, particularly its darker, more unsettling aspects, for my whole life. I am drawn to the macabre, disturbing stories often overlooked in traditional historical narratives. The 17th and 18th centuries, with their blend of religious fervor, social upheaval, and burgeoning scientific inquiry, offer a vibrant tapestry for exploration.
My research has taken me down some unusual paths. I've delved deep into the anxieties surrounding Onanism (self-pollution) during this period, exploring how religious and social pressures shaped individual behavior. I've investigated the brutal persecution of homosexuality, a time when sodomy was punishable by death, and sought to understand the societal and legal frameworks that underpinned such harsh punishments.
But my interests extend beyond the morbid. I'm deeply fascinated by the everyday lives of ordinary people during the American Revolution. I've spent countless hours researching epidemics, the realities of slavery in colonies like Massachusetts and New Hampshire, and the experiences of civilians caught in the upheaval of a war that wasn't always fought on grand battlefields. I'm particularly drawn to the civilian experience, the stories of those caught in the crossfire of a war that wasn't always fought on grand stages, and the narratives of individuals whose lives were irrevocably altered by the events of the Revolution.
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| The Obadiah Mead Jacket. Photo Credit - Greenwich (CT) Historical Society |
I strive to bring these historical figures and experiences to life within the living history community. You might find me portraying a Canadian corvée during Burgoyne's Campaign, struggling to survive in the harsh winter conditions, or perhaps I'll be a sailor, navigating the treacherous seas and facing the perils of life at sea. I've also enjoyed portraying a print seller, sharing news and gossip from the bustling streets of colonial towns, and even a refugee, fleeing the turmoil of the war and seeking safety in uncertain times.
One of my most cherished experiences was participating in the 250th Anniversary of the Devil and the Crown re-enactment. Witnessing a ten-foot-tall devil parade through the streets of Boston was a truly unique and unforgettable spectacle. It was a powerful reminder of the fierce resistance to British authority, a testament to the spirit of defiance that fueled the American Revolution. With its vibrant energy and immersive atmosphere, this event truly brought the past to life and left an indelible mark on my understanding of this pivotal period in American history.
Who is Obadiah Mead? Could you explain the circumstances that led to his demise?
Obadiah Mead was a young boy who unfortunately became a casualty of the American Revolution. His family, the Meads, were staunch Patriots residing in North Greenwich, Connecticut, a region that experienced significant Royalist activity. The Meads were frequent targets of raids by British soldiers and their Loyalist allies.
During one such raid, Obadiah, driven by a youthful sense of defiance, refused to surrender when cornered by the enemy. His refusal to comply cost him his life. The soldiers, enraged by his resistance, shot him dead. This tragic incident serves as a stark reminder of the war's human cost, highlighting the devastating impact on civilians caught in the crossfire of the conflict.
The Meads' story is poignant and reminds us that the American Revolution was not merely a series of battles fought on grand stages. It was a conflict that deeply impacted the lives of ordinary people, tearing families apart and leaving lasting scars on the communities where it was waged.
The events that unfolded serve as a microcosm of the more significant conflict. Like many other families throughout the colonies, the Meads were caught between opposing forces, their lives disrupted, and their safety threatened by the ongoing struggle for independence. Obadiah's tragic fate powerfully reminds us that war starkly contrasts the sanitized narratives often dominating historical accounts.
What can you tell us about the Obadiah Mead jacket? Where is it located? Can it be viewed publicly? Why is it so essential to preserve this artifact?
Obadiah Mead's jacket, with its visible bullet holes, stands as a poignant testament to the brutality of the war. This artifact, now housed at the Greenwich Historical Museum in Connecticut, offers a tangible connection to the past, a chilling reminder of the violence experienced by ordinary families during the American Revolution.
Preserving this jacket is crucial for several reasons:
Historical Significance: It provides irrefutable evidence of the war's impact on civilians, offering a glimpse into the terrifying realities faced by families like the Meads. It allows us to connect with the past on a visceral level, to understand that this wasn't merely a series of battles fought on distant fields but a conflict that had profound and often tragic consequences for ordinary people.
Research Value: A detailed examination of the jacket, including its materials, construction, and bullet holes, can yield invaluable insights into 18th-century clothing, the realities of wartime violence, and the daily lives of those who wore these garments. Textile analysis can provide clues about the fabric's origins, the techniques used to construct the jacket, and the social and economic status of the wearer.
Educational Potential: The jacket can serve as a powerful teaching tool, helping to bring the history of the American Revolution to life for audiences of all ages. It can spark conversations about the human cost of war, encourage critical thinking about historical narratives, and foster a deeper understanding of the past.
We are not merely preserving a piece of cloth by preserving this artifact. We are preserving a piece of history, a tangible link to the past that allows us to connect with the experiences of those who came before us. It is a responsibility we owe to future generations, a chance to ensure that the lessons of the past are not forgotten.
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| Jess Bruce. Photo Credit - Elizabeth Sullock |
You decided to recreate this jacket. Why? Is there any personal reason?
The jacket's unique design, with its striking blue and white stripes, captivated me from the moment I first encountered it. It was more than just a piece of clothing; it was a tangible link to a specific person, a young boy whose life was tragically snuffed out by the war.
I felt deeply connected to the project and wanted to recreate this jacket. I felt a responsibility to honor Obadiah Mead's memory and bring this piece of his past back to life. It was a way of paying tribute to him, his family, and all those who suffered during the American Revolution.
The project also resonated with a deeper personal level. As a historian and living historian, it's crucial to connect with the past on a visceral level. By engaging in this hands-on project, I hoped to gain a deeper understanding of 18th-century clothing and textile production and to develop a stronger connection to the people and events of that era.
The process of recreating this jacket has been a profoundly enriching experience. It has forced me to think critically about the materials used in 18th-century clothing, the techniques employed by 18th-century tailors, and the social and economic context in which these garments were created. It has been a journey of discovery, a chance to delve deeper into the details of the past and appreciate our ancestors' craftsmanship and ingenuity.
How did you go about creating a pattern for the jacket? Did you consult any historians or historical tailors while crafting the pattern? Any sage advice they offered to you?
I knew that recreating this jacket would require expertise beyond my own. I was fortunate to have the support and guidance of master tailor Henry Cooke.
With the gracious permission of the Greenwich Historical Museum, Henry meticulously examined the original jacket, noting every detail of its construction. He measured the fabric, analyzed the stitching, and carefully documented the intricate details of the garment's design.
Henry's expertise was invaluable. He brought a wealth of knowledge about 18th-century tailoring techniques, historical fabrics, and the nuances of garment construction to the project. He patiently explained the intricacies of the pattern-making process, sharing his insights and answering my countless questions.
One of Henry's most valuable pieces of advice was to pay close attention to the details. He emphasized the importance of understanding the purpose of each seam, stitch, andeach design element. "Every detail tells a story," he would often say. "By understanding the 'why' behind each design decision, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship and ingenuity of the past."
I also consulted with historian Tyler Putnam, who provided invaluable insights into the jacket's history and offered valuable observations about its construction and details. Tyler's meticulous research and insightful analysis provided crucial context for the project, helping me understand this remarkable artifact's historical significance.
Describe the process you used for selecting the fabric and any difficulties you encountered in obtaining the fabric.
I was determined to recreate the fabric as authentically as possible, eschewing modern synthetics in favor of traditional methods. This led me to collaborate with master weaver Justin Squizzero. Justin, a true artisan, meticulously hand-wove the striped linen using techniques that would have been familiar to weavers in the 18th century.
Have you started making the jacket? If so, describe your process so far to the readers of Historical Nerdery. Will the jacket be hand-sewn or machine-sewn?
The jacket's creation is a collaborative effort. With his unparalleled skill and expertise, Henry Cooke will hand-sew it. He will painstakingly bring this historical garment back to life using the meticulously crafted pattern and authentically reproduced fabric.
Hand-sewing is essential for this project. It ensures the highest level of authenticity, mirroring the techniques that would have been employed during the 18th century.
Once completed, will you use it for any interpretive program?
While I haven't finalized any specific plans, the completed jacket can be a valuable tool for education and interpretation. It could be incorporated into presentations and living history demonstrations, helping to bring the story of Obadiah Mead and the American Revolution to life for audiences of all ages.
I envision using the jacket to spark conversations about the human cost of war, to highlight the experiences of civilians trapped in the crossfire, and to foster a deeper understanding of this pivotal period in American history.
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| Fabric and Supplies. Photo Credit - Jess Bruce |
Tell us about your blog and where my readers can follow you as you document this project.
I've created a blog titled "Obadiah Mead's Coat" to document the progress of this project. I'll share updates, insights, and photographs as the project unfolds. You can also follow along with updates on the Facebook page "Progressive Re-enactors."
After this project is complete, what project is next in Jess's world?
Completing the jacket will undoubtedly be a significant milestone. However, my passion for history and living history will lead me to exciting new projects.
I'm particularly interested in delving deeper into my family's Revolutionary War history. My ancestors played a role in Lexington's Alarm, and I'm eager to learn more about their experiences and contributions to the fight for independence.
While I may not actively participate in the 250th-anniversary celebrations at Minute Man National Historical Park, I plan to attend as an observer and immerse myself in this momentous occasion.
This project has been a profoundly enriching experience, a journey of discovery that has profoundly connected me to the past. By sharing this story, I hope to inspire others to explore their historical connections and appreciate the rich tapestry of our shared past.
The Nerds would like to express our profound appreciation to Jess for sharing their journey of honoring Obadiah Mead and recreating his jacket. Jess put a tremendous amount of work into this blog post, and the notes and documentation they shared with us in preparation for this interview are a master class in progressive interpretative activities.
Please click the link here to access her full interview. It’s a fantastic educational journey!!
Jess is a valued member of this hobby, and we are fortunate to have the opportunity to share their amazing adventures with our followers! Stay tuned as we suspect we’ll be collaborating with Jess very soon!!
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