What was a wig maker called in colonial times?

In affluent villages and cities, full of wealthy landowners and plantations, the wigmaker was very important. Wigmakers made perukes (wigs), queues (hair pieces that hung from the back of the head) and fashioned the hair of the elite. The ownership of a wig or several wigs was sign of status in colonial America.

Why was wig making important in colonial times?

In a period during which social roles were marked visually, wigs enabled a person to signal their wealth, occupation, and attention to fashion. This social signification made wig making an indispensable trade for some people.

Who was the barber and wig maker?

in Eighteenth Century Williamsburg. Richard Gamble, barber and perukemaker of Williamsburg in the middle years of the eighteenth century, appears to have remained a bachelor all his life.

How did Wigmakers make wigs in colonial times?

Wigmakers mostly make wigs. They make wigs by stitching goat, yak, horse, human hair or wire. Then they can dye wigs. Some wigs had bows.

Where did the wig makers get their hair from?

Most wigmakers imported human hair from Europe, where young peasant women grew and then sold their hair for the trade. The shop also sold products for maintaining wigs and assisting with hair care. Hygiene was a pressing issue in the eighteenth century, and the wigmaker supplied unguents, powders,…

Who was famous for wearing wigs in the 18th century?

To read more about The Hair of the 18th Century CLICK HERE. Another memorable royal who was known for her elaborate wigs was Queen Elizabeth I of England. Wigs were so widespread that virtually all the elite wore wigs or elaborate hairstyles during this time.

Why was wig making important in Colonial Williamsburg?

At Colonial Williamsburg, it became clear that wigmaking was one of the few colonial trades that existed predominantly for fashion rather than necessity. Currently, the tradespeople who continue this eighteenth century tradition find themselves at risk of losing the trade.

What did wigs mean in the southern colonies?

The ownership of a wig or several wigs was sign of status in colonial America. In the Southern colonies, the ownership of wigs was so tied to social status, that wealthy plantation owners bought wigs for their slaves to wear.