Figure 1.--Here we see a group of American chilren we think at a birthday party. Notice that they are not involved in any activity. They probably went outside just to have their photograph taken because of the lighting. We are not sure that the children are wearing their best party clothes, but they are clearly dressed up for the party.

We do not know much about the 19th century, but as far as we can tell, celebrating children's birthdays was a well-established convention throughout the 20th century, including the early-20th century. And we know this because of all the snapshots that began to appear at the turn-of-the 20th century. As a result there are countless birthday party images vailable throughout the 20th century. Taking indoor snaps of parties was complicated, but outdoor images were one might say a snap. The images we have found show children continuing to dress up in their party clothes as was the case in the 1900s. Perhaps a little less formal. We no longer see many Fauntleroy suits, but certainly wjaht we would today see as rather formal wear for what is today seen as a casual event. Younger boys might wear Oliver Twist and sailor suits. Older boys more commonly wore knicker suits. Norfolk styles were very popular. Knickers became standard for American boys in the 1910s, but younger boys might still wear knee pants.

Created: 9:01 PM 3/29/2017
Last updated: 9:01 PM 3/29/2017