This project would not have been possible without the support and interest of my professors at the University of Illinois Springfield. To Dr. Hunter, for introducing me to public history and the knowledge that historians can affect change in the present, and make the future a better place for everyone. To Dr. Kent, for validating my love of fashion history and encouraging me to pursue it as a specialty, even though I was deep in the Land of Lincoln. Without her I would not have believed myself capable of attending graduate school, much less completing a master’s project specific to fashion. To Dr. Fisher for generously agreeing to serve on my thesis committee and helping to guide this project to fruition.

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I would also like to thank those outside of the classroom for providing knowledge and words of encouragement throughout this process. To Erika Holst, for giving me a place to be myself, countless brainstorming sessions, your example as a historian and positive force in the world, and most importantly, for your friendship. To Richard E. Hart, for sharing your amazing photograph collection and historical knowledge, without which this project would have been impossible. To University of Illinois Springfield archivist Thomas Wood, whose ability to understand my ramblings and steer me to helpful resources, strengthened the foundation of my research. And to those who listened to my (many) ideas and helped to guide the final product, Sangamon Valley Collection’s Stephanie Martin, Dr. Christopher Schnell, and my classmates who participated in proposal discussions and peer groups.

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Finally, I could not have completed my studies and this project without the love and support of my family. To Mike, for everything. Not only for your confidence in me, but your constant reassurance and uncanny ability to help me remember words that I had not really forgotten. To my parents and sister, for being my squad, fostering my love of history and knowledge, and for being the best cheerleaders. And to my friends, for your words of encouragement and love. Without the above people, and many more, this project would never have been possible, and for them I will be forever thankful.