Item HT 23637 Girdle - Salmon Pink, circa 1940-1960

Summary

Alternative Name(s): Corset

Salmon girdle with brocaded pattern of leaves and stems. No maker's label. Probably mid 20th century.

The girdle belonged to Freda Emma McDonald, grandmother of the donor. Freda was born around 1905, and grew up and lived all her life in the Williamstown/Newport area, including 60 years in the same house. Her family ran boats that delivered mail and doctors to ships visiting Melbourne. She married and had two children - a boy and a girl, the donor's mother. Her husband worked in the family boat business, but fell on hard times during the 1930s Depression, and left the family for two years, seeking work. Freda tended to be a hoarder and was something of a character. When she passed away in 2003, the family found much accumulated material, including corsets and a fox fur.

Physical Description

Salmon girdle with brocaded pattern of leaves and stems. Two rows of fasteners down front, one layered over the other: inner row of metal hooks (the four upper hooks loop over studs; the lower two over eyes); and outer row of metal hooks and eyeholes for lacing with salmon-coloured cord. Panels of elastic on inside would support stomach; an additional panel of elastic is fixed to outside lower back. Six suspender hooks on elastic, with plastic fittings that hook into metal loops. Boned to upper hips.