Well-dressed women and men completed an outfit with a hat, particularly up until the mid 20th century. A fashion exhibit focusing on accessories will be held at the William Bond House starting Aug. 29. (CONTRIBUTED PHOTO)

ENP STAFF REPORTS
news@eastniagarapost.com

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The Niagara History Center’s historic c.1823 Col. William Bond House will be open from 1-4 p.m. Aug. 29 with a new fashion accessory exhibit, “From Head to Toe.”

Recognizing the city of Lockport’s 150th anniversary, the exhibit covers 150 years (1865-2015) of hats, parasols, fans, shawls, gloves, bags, purses, stockings and footwear.

Accessory fashions changed greatly over this 150-year period. What began as functional necessities became fashion accoutrements used to enhance outfits. The exhibit will showcase fashion trends from the sturdy to the stylish.

“From Head to Toe” is presented throughout the fully furnished, 12-room, National Register-listed house, which is located at 143 Ontario St. It will be open on selected dates through October, to be announced. Docents will be on hand to guide visitors and offer information on the house and exhibit. Donations are always accepted. Tours for eight or more people may also be scheduled by calling the History Center at 434-7433.

The exhibit “From Head to Toe” is co-curated by volunteers Gloria and Becky Pittler, who produced the successful 2014 exhibit “Treasured Childhood Memories” and many other past exhibits and events in the Bond House.

The Bond House is Lockport’s oldest brick home. It was built by early Lockport community leader Col. William Bond and later owned by Erie Canal advocate Jesse Hawley, who influenced Gov. Dewitt Clinton to construct the Canal.

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