Thanks, RCJ and Irish Dave, for the info.
I agree about the tacky vests. And what's wrong with making them out of period correct material? No cowpoke would be caught dead in such a garment. Also, the modern vests almost always have revers - which was not always the case back then.
Mike,
forgot to mention that Jean Warren (Thanks Dr. Bob!) is the proprietor of James Country and she is plumb delightful to work with. The collar you mention is commonly referred to as a 'stand-and-fall' collar. Give her a call and she will let you know what specials she has right now and patterns and such. She REALLY knows her stuff. Just about every NCOWS member I know has had clothing made by her shop. James Country usually always sets up a booth at the NCOWS Convention, where she does a BRISK business. Jean will be the one in period dress with bare feet!
River Junction Trade is owned by James Bakke, an NCOWS Senator, and he has an equally gifted crew of seamstresses to turn out clothing. Again, give him a call and see what prints and patterns are in stock. The Drover, or, most especially, The Frontier shirt are likely what you're looking for. Although River Junction Trade has been sorely missed at our NCOWS Convention in recent memory, his physical location in McGregor plus the online store are excellent.
Delmonico, who works at The Old West Store at The Fort, also knows his merchandise and his history, and will not steer you wrong. Awhile back The Fort was THE source for a particular type of 'cathedral-stitched' boot for guys with large calfs, and the remakes of correct 'fish-skin'-type slickers for wet weather.
When, and if, you want to take it up a notch, I can post some sources for readymade clothing that boasts hand-sewn buttonholes and bone or pearl buttons. Plus a few sources for period fabric cloth in correct prints and patterns if you want to try your hand at sewing.
As to Fall Creek Sutler, I am sorry that I do not have a personal relationship with any one person at that establishment. But they have done such yeoman service and enjoy almost a universal positive reputation. They seem to be one of those merchants that quietly go about setting the standard to the reenactment community as far as quality at economical prices. The few items I have purchased from them were totally satisfactory.
Many of our members have had fun teaching themselves sewing, leather working, knife making, beading, any number of crafts- you name it. It's all good. I have yet to meet an NCOWS member who will not share freely of their time, experience or expertise. Questions in this Forum are a welcome and necessary step to learning about NCOWS. We have a very diverse and wonderful membership. Between The Shootist; here in CAS City; and personal encounters with the membership at the various events, there is ample opportunity to enjoy the NCOWS experience! PLUS our Executive Committee, the National Officers, are not only personable but very approachable.
RCJ (Here's your first clue about me,. . . . .don't ever get me started because I turn everything into a dissertation.
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