Domestic Attire
Sebesta offers historical significance of aprons & bonnets

Contributed Photo New Library Display Kim Goynes, Frances Arrambide and Carol Brandes (l-r) look over the apron and bonnet display at the El Campo Branch Library. Marilyn Sebesta will be giving a special historical presentation on the garments at 10:30 am., Friday, Nov. 9. All are invited to attend.

What is the significance of wearing an apron or bonnet? In the past, were they signs of subservience and humility? Were they a monument to domestic servitude? No.

Bonnets, by definition, were headgear secured by ribbon to keep the hair tidy and dust out of the hair.

If you are intrigued by the subject, make plans to attend a special presentation at the El Campo Branch Library at 10:30 am., Friday, Nov. 9 when guest speaker Marilyn Sebesta will give a brief summary on the subject and their place in history.

Bonnets were worn in pioneer times as the women worked with their men in the fields, working to secure their livelihood. Bonnets in pioneer times had wide brims to protect the woman's skin from burning under the harsh sun of the prairies.

Bonnets were loving gifts made by mothers and grandmothers for their daughters and granddaughters.

Aprons, by definition, are articles of clothing to protect garments from dirt and grime, generally covering the front of one's clothing. However, aprons are so much more. They are a catch-all for the childhood treasures of a mother's little one.

Aprons are great for drying the quick tears of tender hearts. They are pot-holders used while baking and serving gifts of love, such as after-school cookies, Christmas pies and Thanksgiving feasts. Some people have everyday aprons and Sunday aprons, aprons for everyday living and aprons for guests.

Attendees are invited to wear their favorite aprons and/or bonnets while attending the special presentation at the library. Please also bring an item for the Blessing Cup.

A special display is set up in the Library with aprons and bonnets, old and new, for all to view and enjoy. Call or come by the library for more information at 979-543-2362 or 200 W. Church Street, El Campo.

(Definitions courtesy of Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia at: http:en.wikipedia.org).