Historical Costumes

        For those of you who really like to get into the era you are currently teaching your students, you should definitely think about creating costumes.  Butterick has some clothing patterns just for this with the label of "Making History."  Vogue also has some patterns labeled "Vintage Vogue" and they consist of an array of 1940s-1960s styles.  Finally, Simplicity also has an assortment of historical costume patterns.  Hopefully you know a seamstress who can help you put the costumes together.  You can also check eBay and other websites such as Majestic Velvets for pre-made costumes at a pretty reasonable price!  Otherwise, you can use YouTube to find helpful tutorials on how to follow patterns.  I once portrayed Pauline Cushman, a Union spy during the Civil War, as a set induction for a class.  It really caught the attention of the class.  Yes, you will have to spend your own money for these costumes but in my opinion it really adds something special that the students never see and will never forget.  Hey, it might foster a lifelong interest in history for a child.  You never know.