Friday, June 17, 2011

Declaration Clothing

The part of you that geeks out over American history--the same part that allowed you to sit through a marathon of the entire John Adams miniseries--is really excited about these T-shirts from Declaration Clothing. They utilize graphics harkening back to the birth of the United States.

The line was started in 2009 by a couple of college roommates in Boston who share a common love of history. All shirts are American made with eco-friendly water-based dyes. Below are several selections, and each includes the story of its significance in the Revolutionary War and beyond, as provided by the folks at Declaration.

"Adopted by the Sons of Liberty in 1767, this 'rebellious stripes' flag had nine alternating red and white stripes which represented the nine colonies attending the Stamp Act Congress."
"The Badge of Military Merit is the predecessor to today's Purple Heart. The badge was given to soldiers who exhibited 'not only instances of unusual gallantry in battle, but also extraordinary fidelity and essential service in any way.' It was awarded to only three soldiers by General George Washington in 1783."
"This shirt depicts the iconic wood-cut carved by master printer Benjamin Franklin. The political cartoon was originally drawn in 1754 to rouse support and unity among the British colonies to fight off French traders and Native Americans during the French and Indian War. This woodcut's meaning and use changed when the Revolutionary War came about, it became a call to action for the colonies to unite and fight against British tyranny."
"This coin, first struck in 1787, was designed by Benjamin Franklin. It was the first coin issued under the authority of the United States. The 13 rings represent the 13 colonies and encircle a 'We are One' call to unity."
"This ornate U.S.A. monogram was engraved on the buttons of Continental Army officers during the Revolutionary War. This intertwined symbol is believed by many to have influenced today's dollar sign, $. The thirteen stars are incorporated to represent those thirteen brave colonies that rebelled against tyranny."
"This Rhode Island Regiment Flag was flown above the many Rhode Islanders whom fought during the Revolution. The typical rope has been replaced by a rattle snake which Ben Franklin described as the perfect symbol for America because 'she never begins an attack, nor, when once engaged, ever surrenders: She is therefore an emblem of magnanimity and true courage.'"
"This is one of the first coins minted by Massachusetts in 1787. These were made by the state until the federal government took over responsibility for minting all monies in 1789, with the passing of the Constitution of the United States."
"In an effort to rally Bostonians, the Sons of Liberty posted this broadside after the Boston Massacre took place. It depicts the coffins of the five men who died as a result of that fateful night."
"The Turtle was the America's first submarine. It was designed by David Bushnell and was intended to drill holes into the bottom of British warships and plant explosive powder kegs. In it's maiden and only voyage it's pilot Ezra Lee was unable to penetrate the HMS Eagle and the bomb detonated causing no damage."

1 comment:

rothco said...

Very nice post related to military clothing. Military clothing these days are in great trend