For the last 200 years the histories of Murfreesboro and of First Presbyterian Church have been intertwined. In 1811 the State General Assembly approved the proposal of Capt. William Lytle to establish the town of Cannonsburg, later renamed Murfreesborough in honor of Col. Hardy Murfree in the vicinity of Murfree Spring. At the same time Murfree Spring Church (now First Presbyterian Church) was also holding services in the Murfree Spring area.
While there have been many events to celebrate both the Bicentennial of First Presbyterian Church and the City of Murfreesboro, the upcoming fashion show at the church will be one of the most unique. Titled “200 Years of Fashion Styles", the church first premiered this event last fall and it was so popular with both men and women they have decided to repeat it and open it up to the public. There are no tickets needed and no charge.
The program highlights what women wore from 1812 to 1970 and how what was happening locally and statewide determined what a lady would wear to church on Sunday. The church is located at the corner of Spring and College Streets. The show, which lasts about an hour, begins at 11:00 am. The fashion show is this Saturday (April 14, 2012).
Linda Stevens of First Presbyterian is the creator of this program and did a lot of research for the clothing and even sewed several dresses for the event. The 16 very different styles range from colonial to pre and post Civil War, Victorian dress, World Wars 1 & 2, the Depression Era up to the “anything goes” 1960’s and 70’s. When you leave you will know all you ever wanted to know about hats, jewelry, shoes, bustles and just how many slips did women wear under all those big heavy skirts. Come to First Presbyterian Church by the College St. entrance and enjoy a unique look at history through clothing. The program is free and open to the public.