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An coat from around 1830 (?)

Posted: Wed Nov 07, 2007 12:50 pm
by OliverRuuger
Gentlemen,

I came across this particular sir when reading about the history of law enforcement in London.

Image

Charlie Rouse, the last watchman of London.
The coat he is wearing looks like nothing i have seen before, specially the sleeve.
Can any members of the lounge shed some light on this particular type of garment?

"In 1740 Sir Thomas de Veil, established a court house in Bow Street
near the Opera House in Covent Garden. Ten years later, his successor,
Henry Fielding, formed the Bow Street Runners. Initially nicknamed Robin Redbreasts,
on account of their scarlet waistcoats, the original eight Bow Street Runners were
London's first band of constables. Their functions included serving writs,
detective work and arresting offenders. The Bow Street Runners travelled all over
the country in search of criminals and gained a reputation for honesty and
efficiency. "

- Oliver

Posted: Wed Nov 07, 2007 4:54 pm
by couch
This would be Sator's line, but the "sleeves" almost look as if they were a layered half-cape, on the lines of an Inverness or opera coat. Given that Mr. Rouse appears to be wearing a hanger or cutlass, perhaps the extra cloth was intended to be useful to defend against edged weapons as well as inclement weather. I must say I like the checked lining.