Fitting In?


Changing Values and Identities in Canadian Women’s Uniforms
1945-1980



About
Historical Background
Acknowledgments

Uniforms:
1. Gymnastics, 1945-1955
2. Graduation, 1948 
3. Domestic Service, 1950s
4. Royal Canadian Air Force (W.D), 1953
5. TTC Guide, 1955
6. Nursing, 1950s- 1960s
7. Expo 67’ Canadian Pavillion, 1967
8. PWA Flight Attendent, 1971
9. CN Tower Jumpsuit, 1976
10. Unitarian, 1950s -1980s
11. Tim Hortons, 1970s



Domestic Worker Uniform

Location: 31 Mackay St., Ottawa
Date: 1950s
Materials: Cotton
Maker: Martha Washington by Hamptons
Accreditation: Canadian Museum of History, 981.61.1


This uniform was worn by an unknown domestic servant for the son of Canadian liberal politician and lawyer William. G.P. Pugsley (1850-1925). It is not clear which of the several workers wore this uniform over the years, while more is known about the family that employed them. The only recorded  names we have of staff are listed as Em (a cook), Amy Wilson (a nursemaid), and Mary Homolkian although this is not a full list of all that worked at this residence. Other objects were donated with this dress including aprons, clothes and accessories which may have been worn as early as the 1920s. 

Street view of the house at 31 MacKay Street, Ottawa. 
Illustration of a domestic worker’s uniform

Physical Description: This dress is made of a thin striped blue and white cotton fabric.White, starched, cotton fabric is used on both the notch collar and sleeve cuffs. A dart is placed on the back of the 9 inch sleeves which helps improve range of motion, an aspect important for this line of work. Three white buttons open the bodice at the centre front. Two patch pockets are placed on the front of the skirt close to the waist. The waist of the dress measures 26 inches. There are two fabric belt loops on the back, however the belt is missing. A yolk on the front gives structure to the gathering above the bust, ensuring good fit and style. Dress shields made of the striped fabric line the underarms, preventing body sweat from penetrating the outside of the garment. There are several stains on this dress from an unknown source and fading is visible on the chest and skirt front.



References:
  1. Uniform Dress. 1950s. Accession 981.61.1 Canadian Museum of History. Gatineau, QC. https://www.historymuseum.ca/collections/artifact/135298  

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