What accessories did Mary Musgrove wear? This question delves into the personal style and social status of a woman who played a significant role in colonial Georgia. Born in 1703, Mary Musgrove was the daughter of James Musgrove, a Scottish merchant, and a Native American woman named Selah. As a prominent figure in the 18th-century American South, her fashion choices and accessories would have reflected her unique position as a bridge between European and Native American cultures.
Mary Musgrove’s accessories would have been influenced by both the British colonial style and the Native American traditions of the time. One of the most notable accessories she would have worn was the Native American warbonnet. This feathered headdress was a symbol of her status and her role as a peacekeeper between the British and the Creek people. The warbonnet would have been adorned with feathers, beads, and possibly shells, showcasing her connections and alliances.
Another essential accessory in Mary Musgrove’s wardrobe was the corset. As a woman of the colonial era, she would have worn a corset to accentuate her waist and create the desired hourglass figure. The corset would have been made of whalebone or wood and laced up the back, providing both structural support and a fashionable silhouette.
In addition to the corset, Mary Musgrove would have worn a variety of jewelry to enhance her appearance. Her jewelry collection would have included items like rings, earrings, and necklaces, which were often crafted from precious metals and adorned with gemstones. These pieces would not only serve as personal adornments but also as status symbols, reflecting her wealth and social standing.
Footwear was another important aspect of Mary Musgrove’s accessories. As a woman of her time, she would have worn shoes that were appropriate for her social status and the demands of her daily life. This could include leather boots for outdoor activities and finer, embroidered shoes for more formal occasions.
Mary Musgrove’s hat choices would have been diverse, reflecting her status and the changing seasons. She might have worn a straw hat for summer, a beaver hat for winter, and a silk bonnet for more formal events. These hats would have been adorned with feathers, ribbons, and other decorative elements, further emphasizing her fashion sense and social connections.
In conclusion, Mary Musgrove’s accessories would have been a blend of British colonial fashion and Native American influences. Her warbonnet, corset, jewelry, footwear, and hats would have served not only as personal adornments but also as symbols of her status, wealth, and social connections. By examining what accessories Mary Musgrove wore, we gain insight into the life of a colonial woman who played a pivotal role in the history of Georgia and the United States.
