Postman's cape

Object

Cloak

Production date

1930 = 1940

Object number

1987.219

Physical Description

A postman's oilskin cape. According to the Hackney resident who donated it, along with several other items of postmen's clothing, this oilskin cape belonged to postman 'George "Sailor" Johnson - PO character', and came from the 'Clapton Office, Brook [Brooke?] Road, E5'. This oilskin cape would be used by a Hackney postman, in this case 'Sailor' Johnson, during his deliveries in wet weather. Oilskin is a type of fabric, usually canvas, which has been made waterproof by the addition of a water resistant substance such as linseed oil. There is a flap at the neck to stop water creeping in where the coat buttons up at the front. The cape is wide enough to completely cover the post bags.

Material

Oilskin

Oilskin (Fabric)

Dimension

height (Whole): 1450mm
width (whole): 1240mm
Width: 1240mm