Archival Anecdotes: Don't forget your coat!

Rumor has it that by the time this newspaper reaches its readers, most of North Dakota will be in the midst of a cold snap.

If that happens, we might be forced to actually put on a coat and find those gloves.

I know, I know. But failing to protect ourselves from freezing temperatures can have serious implications.

Those of us who are parents have added fingers, toesies and nosies to worry about. Even worse, little bodies are often stubborn when it comes to wearing appropriate winter attire.

But don't tell the fashion industry.

At right, a child is wearing a distinctively Edwardian ensemble complete with woolen knickerbockers and a Norfolk inspired jacket. It's likely that he has several layers on underneath. And probably a warm fire to return to as well.

After all, it's the coming in from the cold and warming up that allows us to enjoy the outdoors in winter.

Below are two photos that were found in a photo album kept by Lorraine Dykes in the late 1930s.

Clothing became simpler, more modern and mass produced, though typically used the same wool material. Fringe and embellishments were sewn right into the design. There were even options for matching hoods, hats and mittens.

I have no doubt many mittens were lost in those days, and I am sure that many, many hands were warmed by the fire.