Aprons were a traditional part of everyday home attire until approximately half a century ago, particularly for women. Considered an essential garment for performing household chores, they ranged from sturdy and serviceable to fragile and fancy. After a period of hiatus starting in the mid-1960s, aprons are experiencing a minor renaissance. Their renewed popularity is perhaps part of a cyclic fashion trend or may be a result of the frugality spawned by the Great Recession. Whatever the reason, the apron is enjoying a revival with both women and men.
In honor of the latest apron revival, museum staff have mounted an exhibit of aprons from the museum’s collections. The official opening of the exhibit, The Apron: Body Armour or Bling, coincides with Sunday’s Family Fun Day in Little Falls. Museum hours tomorrow (June 5, 2011) are noon to 5 p.m. Visitors are encouraged to wear or bring their own aprons to the event, which is free and open to the public. The exhibit can also be viewed during regular museum hours, Tuesday through Saturday, 10 am to 5 pm. For more information, call 320/632-4007.