Lady Windermere’s Fan – Blow out!

In case you thought you could get tickets for the SITU Spring Event, ( “Lady Windermere’s Fan” ), you’d be “late” to the party.  Although the play happens in May and the due date for the final payment is due in April, SITU has SOLD OUT all the tickets we reserved, 2 FULL MONTHS before the play!

This is fair forewarning that future gatherings and events for SITU, will be posted and advertised well in advance.  Don’t be surprised if each of the offerings blow out prior to the final payment date.

If you have any questions, feel free to drop a line to Treasurer “at” SITUSeattle “dot” com

“Phryne Fisher” Wanna-Be

What does it take to look like Phryne?

I wanted to know, so I started to research “the look.”  The historical costuming club to which I belong, frequently has held, or participated in 1920’s era gatherings.  This was special however.  My well known twin, Lady Victoria of Essex, was asking me to look into the possibilities of getting something together in time for summer.  She was coordinating attendance with The Brits for the All British Field Meet in July of 2018.

This is no minor activity.  This is a distinguished showing of classic thru contemporary British motors.  Her image was likely to be captured with Bentley, Rolls, Jags and more.  Whatever I came up with, needed to be suitable for my famous twin.

With limited sources for fabrics in Seattle, either a trip to California or New York seemed to be looming in the future.  NOTHING I had checked on from etsy or ebay had enough yardage for the pieces that need to be created.  Now what?

A road trip to Oregon seemed my next best choice.   A mutual friend of ours had mentioned a location near the state line.  The she and hubby were heading there to shop in preparation to gather fabrics for a King Henry VIII outfit.  Good golly, surely a 1920’s outfit would be easier?

So early in the day, I hopped into the carpool for the 3hr ride, arriving to a magnificent warehouse.  Oh the delights found indoors!  Within the hour, 2 entire garment sets of fabric had been cobbled together – top and matching pants, fabric for a duster, silk dress and matching silk lining with handkerchief bottom hemline, plus another duster.  Amazing fabrics. Wonderful colors.  Prices not to be found anywhere in the Seattle area.  The efforts of our friends and the king outfit… still a work in progress.

The trip was well worth it!  When does sewing commence?  When an inspiration pattern arrives by mail.  Should be soon.  I will post efforts as we go along.  Can’t wait to see Lady Victoria all decked out as she strolls with her bodyguard at her side.  Should make for some stellar images…

Bootleggers Spotted in Skagit Valley…

Bootleggers – Runners of illegal, home-brewed hooch.  Makers, sellers and/or transporters of alcoholic liquor for sale illegally.

Early one Sunday morning, cars of various makes and models descended upon a church parking lot in Snohomish. 

 From these vehicles, the occupants stepping out were wearing Fedoras, plaid caps, boater hats, and the ladies in cloche or straw hats.  The garments were short daytime dresses on the ladies, while “knickers” and gangster-looking attire on the men could be viewed.

Why were they entering the lot and leaving every minute and a half or so? 

 Well, one could guess they were avoiding the local “coppas”, but in actuality, the participants were gathering maps and instructions for “The Bootleggers’ Run”, the Spring Event for the historical costume group Somewhere in Time, Unlimited (SITU). 

This gimmick rally was orchestrated by Somewhere in Time, Unlimited. The group is based in the Seattle, Washington area.  The actual route was laid out and planned by Lady Victoria and Sir Harry of Essex to be simple enough for people to enjoy, yet challenging enough that Drivers and Navigators would need to pay attention to the surrounding countryside as the route wound its way north into the Skagit Valley.

Drizzle fell from the sky at Marysville.  Reports of brilliant sunshine on Fir Island gave everyone hope.  The end of the rally would be an indoor picnic at a beautifully maintained 1898 Victorian home. 

The owners of the property (George & Don)  prepared the setting well for all the Bootleggers who were to arrive in the early afternoon.  Even their friend John (owner of the Foxglove Guesthouse in Seattle), was on site playing 78 records on vintage phonographs, the sounds floating across the yard and into the house lending an air of vintage charm .

The food selections were incredible, from savory to sweet.  Champagne flowed, as did small shot glasses of Absinthe.  Looking around, you would swear you stepped straight into the era of Prohibition.

The vintage cars which appeared for the day’s festivities were driven by members from the Skagit/Snohomish Horseless Carriage Club and NW Speedsters.  We were all honored by your presence and willingness to participate in the fun.  We hope you had a good time too!

Looking for an excuse for adult dress-up and you’re looking for a fun bunch of folks to share your passion?  Then consider coming along to our upcoming events: “Summer by The Lake” (late Victorian or early Edwardian) and “Stage Door Canteen” (the war years of 1938-1945).  Lady V and Sir Harry would love to welcome you to the next event!

Check out our website at: www.CostumingInSeattle.com  We even offer free or very low-cost classes for those interested in learning more!  All ages are welcome…

Ghost train a-comin’?

It was as if I had stepped back into time and was reliving 1909 all over again.  The day was hot.  Really hot.  Dust blew on the wind across my shoes and into my face as I and others walked across the hard ground before stepping onto the platform. 

Other passengers yet, were already waiting there in heat of this June day.

We were headed for the Alaska Yukon Pacific Exposition (AYPE) going on in Seattle.  The group had assembled from all over the world, literally.  There was a doctor from London (Essex) England, a woman coming from Alabama named Suzanna, and there was me, Elfriede Schratzenstaller of Bavaria Germany. 

I was heading to Seattle thru the United States in order to meet up with my distant relatives who had safely made the journey before me and had started a beer brewing business just outside of Seattle.  There were many fields of hops growing in the Kent and Puyallup Valleys. 

My little dog’s name is “Willy”, short for Kaiser Wilhelm of Germany.  I am a very long way from home and Willy’s company has been reassuring for me.

Neither Willy or I speak much English, but know enough hand motions to have made it this far.  We are now about a half-day’s journey outside of Seattle and the end of a long ride is close to an end.

Now flash forward.  Here we are all gathered at the South CleElum Station.  The lot of us are recreating the experience as the travelers would have had 100 years ago on their way thru this historic station which welcomed visitors to Washington State from all over the country and beyond!

As part of our day, we interacted with talented Telegraphers who actually used equipment to send historic telegrams this day. 

There was a young “runner” who acted as delivery boy at the station, also in full costume and historical attitude.

“Mr. Mark” was not only the MC at this point, but he was dressed as one of the conductors for the old railroad while others yet, dressed as the engineers.

After a delightful lunch served up in the now air-conditioned station, we wandered back outside for a second look.  Gone were the famous rails that brought the crowds to and from Seattle.  In their place was now an interpretive walk. 

Over yonder, a lone car stood next to one of the historical buildings, seeming to call for the other cars, locamotive and caboose which were missing.  If you listened carefully, you could hear the tweet of the steam engine’s whistle and just swear the train was coming around the bend headed once again for the station!

What happened to the train?  As is the case of many of these powerhouses, they were sent to the wayside.  It is now finally, the next generation is looking back and yearning for a slower, quieter time of history when there were genteel men and women traveling along side perhaps some of the more unsavory members of the community, but all dressed in such incredible attire.

Want to see more pictures and learn details of the day?  Please go out to visit Somewhere in Time, Unlimited (SITU – home page).  We are a historical costuming social group that holds 4 parties (Events) per year and participates in numerous community organized events (Dress-up Opportunities) during the year.  We’d love to have you come along sometime to enjoy the fun.

In the meantime, don’t be surprised if you hear the wail of that lonesome whistle near Cle Elum, Washington.  It’ll just be thunderous ghost steel headed for a beautifully restored Victorian South Cle Elum Station!

Titanic – Survivors Hit…

Titanic - Dressed out in banners, Good Friday 1912, Courtesy Michael Pocock

…A joyful note this past Feb 28, 2009 when the members and friends of Somewhere in Time, Unlimited held Titanic-The Survivors’s Ball in Seattle, Washington. 

This historic costuming group paid homage to the fallen and the survivors of this noteworthy vessel in our history.  Guests were treated to a 7-course Edwardian-style dinner which was catered by Cindy Madsen of Ravenrook Feasts as a special benefit to the group.  Ms. Madsen dished up sumptuous round after round, while a few senior classmembers of Holy Names Academy provided excellent table-side service.  Thank you to the lovely ladies adorned in Battenburg-lace aprons.

The delightful husband/wife duo of Kleinschmidt and Conquest, dressed in their special formal attire for the evening.

Several times, this couple (along with many other attendees) could be seen about the room chatting with other guests and partaking in the excellent dinner.

Long-time members of Somewhere in Time, Unlimited, they can be seen in several photos on the main website’s “Prior Events“.

Guests were encouraged to pose before the image of Titanic in preparation of  “boarding”.

 

Always stylish and chic, Mr. & Mrs. Cash stepped out in grand style and allowed a quick snap of the photo lens to capture their dashing image!

Not to be outdone, I hear they were spotted twirling to a tune or two during the evening.  The rest of the time, they were lively company to their tablemates with news of “other survivors” in attendance….

This couple is relatively new to the group Somewhere in Time, Unlimited but have been spotted at a number of events since “coming aboard”.  They are great fun and I hope you get to meet them soon.

Opera Singer - Jeffrey Jordan & The Ragtime Orchestra

World-renowned opera tenor Jeffrey Jordan graced the audience with his brilliant performance of various songs all evening including “Torna A Sorriento”.  (Currently, he performs with Seattle Opera as well as represents the needs of artistic individuals when purchasing or selling homes in the Seattle area as a real estate agent.)  His vocal duet partner this evening was none other than soprano Lady Victoria, also of local Seattle fame.

Orchestra Maestro - Phil Wilkinson

Their musical efforts were complimented by the very talented, 13-piece Ragtime Waltz Orchestra lead by Maestro Phil Wilkinson.

The Maestro had chosen musical pieces that reflected the Titanic era such as “After The Ball”, “I Want a Gal, (just like the gal that married dear old dad)” and a number of ragtime, “piano-roll blues” and Castle waltz favorites which his orchestra performed “to a T”.  Well done, ladies and gents!!!

Also in attendance was a young ballerina Miss Madeline Peters who is sure to be a rising star on Seattle’s stage.  We look forward to seeing more of your performances Ms. Peters!  Guests enjoyed the dance instruction of the Castle Waltz as performed by Miss Christine Pinto and Miss Pippin Sardo.  This demonstration was the opening signal that the dance floor was now open for all to enjoy.  Thank you, ladies.

Master of Ceremonies for the evening was the dashing and charming “Captain” Alfred Myers.  His beautiful wife Linda greeted guests as they “boarded” and pinned fragrant carnation  boutonnieres to lapels and dresses.  Thank you to you both for enchanting everyone with your style and grace and making us feel so welcome!

If you missed this Event but enjoy historical costuming, hop out to the website of Somewhere in Time, Unlimited and check out the Calendar to see when you might meet up with us again.  We are headed for Port Townsend, Washington next for their Victorian Festival.  See you soon….

 

Goin’ to The Fair – 100 Yrs Ago.

Harry, Kimberly & Beverly

What must it have been like 100 yrs ago, to go to a real “County Fair”?

That was on the mind of organizers of the Evergreen State Fairgrounds when they dedicated the Opening Day of the fair to centennial celebrations and invited local dignitaries and the members of Somewhere in Time, Unlimited to come out in 1908 attire to add “color” to the fun!

Here, three of SITU’s members are pictured resting in front of the lovely “Merry-go-round” after a turn or two on the large ferris wheel.

So back to our opening question.  What WAS it really like at the local county fair?  Well, the historical exhibits on-site gave us a few clues.  We quickly realized that “going to the fair” was a particularly special thing.  100 years ago, people dressed UP to be seen in public.  I can imagine the farming community probably wore Sunday finery (or pretty close to it) and city folk would’ve come out to the country to partake in a ritual and admiration of exhibits with which their world seldom collided. 

For fair 2008, participants had carefully collected examples of vintage garments, crafts, photos, etc. and created incredible displays for all to enjoy.   Preserved and fresh vegetables displayed with great flourish could be viewed and admired.  Incredible works of art were reflected in the quilts, the photography, painting, weaving, needle work and such.  Handsome animals large and small could be found in various locations on the grounds, ribbons dramtically and proudly displayed.  Even little habitats for kitty-cats with their young human designers standing at the ready to answer questions about their habitat handiwork, was inspiring.  Oh, were my own kitty to have such a wonderful hiding spot!

That wasn’t all.  In the middle of it all, came the welcome scent whafting thru the air of corndogs and hamburgers cooking.  The onions nearly made me turn on my heel and leave my friends behind because the onions cooking smelled sooooo enticing!  Then were was fragrant candy.  Popcorn.  Men and women working the carnie strip enticing us to cross their palms with coinage and take a chance of throwing a ball or tossing a ring.  Rides.  Lots of rides, our favorites being the ferris wheel and the merry-go-round. 

I could close my eyes and just envision what a warm day and evening might’ve looked like back then, 100 yrs ago.  The fair hasn’t changed much.  Even tho people now stroll around in jeans and sweatshirts instead of glamourous gowns, parasols and lovely hats, the enticement to come spend a few hours away from household and work duties is still an attraction that many of us can still enjoy.

Congrats, Evergreen State Fairgrounds.  It was a lovely day and one to be remembered!

Kimberly & Rita in 1908 attire

Gypsy Caravan Arrives – Bellydancers too?

European gypsies.  Middle-eastern gypsies.  American gypsies. They were everywhere I looked and all amassed in one place!

Okay, so I’m remiss in my sequence of storytelling.  The day began at Country Village in the city of Bothell, Washington, USA.  They have a delightful collection of old houses/shacks which positioned together, create themed retail storefronts.  In the middle of the cluster, one can find an outdoor “stage” of sorts with a large patio or “square” which turned out to be ideal for under-tent-seating on this 90F day.

The members of Somewhere in Time, Unlimited had gathered together for a picnic lunch followed by “gypsy dancing”.  Oh my!  I hadn’t seen such talent all in one afternoon anywhere else in the Seattle area.  Of course, I don’t go to Hemp Fest or other bellydancing sort of gatherings, but I did find it interesting none the less. 
Guests were also treated to traditional Flamenco dancing performed by fellow SITU member Miss Pippin.  The Event was organized by fellow bellydancer and SITU member Miss Marion.  She did an awesome job to bring everyone and everything, together.  Participants had a delightful, tho hot, afternoon!

Photos will be posted out on the regular website of SITU.  Click HERE to see photos of this event.

If you’d like to hook up with us for some other Event or Dress-up Opportunity, please let me know!  We’d love to have you come along!  See our Calendar if there might be something of interest to you….

Fond smiles from the NW corner of these GREAT United States,
Auntie Rita

Do you enjoy historical costuming and parties?

I am looking for other like-minded people (men and women) who enjoy costumes, historical types in particular.  If you live in the greater Seattle driving area and like parties, costumes and fun events, you will want to contact Somewhere in Time Unlimited!

Hop out to the website: www.CostumingInSeattle.com and take a look at all the various photos.  On the “About” tab, you will find email addresses.  For a mere $10 a year, what other source of entertainment have YOU found recently?

Smiles, Auntie Rita
P.S.  If you have a costume blog, could you let me know?  I am very interested in hearing from you too…

“Aaaaar!” and other Olde World attire…

Pirates and gypsies have gotten a bum wrap over the years.  Must be the politics of it all.  The pirates had a lot of moxy to travel the open seas, deal with sword fights and other gun battles all in search of the elusive loot.  Gypsies also had/have a lot of moxy traveling Europe and the Middle East as a wandering sort of people who conducted their business in trade rather than plundering, as well as being “home owners”, theirs being towed by strong horses and not the waves.

Here’s a beautiful example of a painted European gypsy
wagon I found on the internet called Gypsy Vans by Roth!

 

I remember fondly the gypsies that I encountered while in Germany.  No, I wasn’t fearful of them and I found the people to be really hard-working sorts.  They had colourful garments, fabulous long flowing hair, and a style of merry-making while sitting around the campfire at night that even now, beats the heck out of watching commercial TV!  The few families I met were a tight knit sort who looked after the children with care.  They had skills that few of the villagers in the area I was staying in, actually possessed.

So, here we are all these many years later and I am thinking about these two groups of traveling folk again.  It’s so interesting to me to know that “Pirates” are now welcomed to participate in the Tall Ships parade and exhibition in Tacoma, Washington this Independence holiday weekend in 2008, while just a wee bit later on July 12th, members of Somewhere in Time, Unlimited are going to host “The Gypsy Caravan Arrives at Country Village” out in Bothell, Washington.  The SITU members welcome a talented dance troupe and musicians who will be performing at the pavillion and stage in the Village.  If you’d like to join in the fun, bring a picnic lunch and dress in “gypsy attire” of your imagination or research.  You are most welcome!!!

What did 1908 look like in the Pacific NW?

Are you a history buff?  Do you like antiques?  Do you love clocks?  Do vintage fashions interest you?  Then you’re in for a treat!

    

On July 5th, the Kitsap County Museum in Bremerton is hosting a Grand Opening of their “Main Street” exhibit.  The street running in front of the museum will be blocked off so that celebrations have room to spill out onto the street.  There will be a ribbon cutting, hot-dog vendors, music, and people dressed in 1908 style attire from Somewhere in Time, Unlimited (SITU).

If you are interested in hopping the ferry with some of us and enjoying the late morning in Bremerton, please feel free to email: LadyVictoria at SITUSeattle.com  She will be able to fill you in on the details and potentially help you with some costuming ideas too!