VPI Cape

Access and use

Location of collection:
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University
Special Collections, University Libraries (0434)
Newman Library
Virginia Tech
P.O. Box 90001
560 Drillfield Drive
Blacksburg, VA 24062-9001
Contact for questions and access:
Phone: (540) 231-6308
Fax: (540) 231-3694
Restrictions:

The collection is open for research.

Terms of access:

The copyright status of this collection is unknown. Copyright restrictions may apply. Contact Special Collections and University Archives for assistance in determining the use of these materials.

Reproduction or digitization of materials for personal or research use can be requested using our reproduction/digitization form: http://bit.ly/scuareproduction.

Reproduction or digitization of materials for publication or exhibit use can be requested using our publication/exhibition form: http://bit.ly/scuapublication.

Please contact Special Collections and University Archives (specref@vt.edu or 540-231-6308) if you need assistance with forms or to submit a completed form.

Preferred citation:

Researchers wishing to cite this collection should include the following information: [identification of item], [box], [folder], VPI Cape, n.d., Textile-1994-003, Special Collections and University Archives, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Va.

Summary

Extent:
3.1 Cubic Feet 1 box
Abstract:
This VPI Cape is made of a navy blue wool and red wool lining. There is a single hook clasp on the collar and just below the hook is a black cord loop. Above the hook and under the collar is a separate piece of material which can fasten to buttons on the underside of the right and or left collar. When these are fastened the collar stands straight up. Across the chest is a black frog cord. Stitching is present where it is assumed a label once was, no labels are present.
Language:
No linguistic content; Not applicable .
Preferred citation:

Researchers wishing to cite this collection should include the following information: [identification of item], [box], [folder], VPI Cape, n.d., Textile-1994-003, Special Collections and University Archives, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Va.

Background

Scope and content:

This VPI Cape is made of a navy blue wool and red wool lining. There is a single hook clasp on the collar and just below the hook is a black cord loop. Above the hook and under the collar is a separate piece of material which can fasten to buttons on the underside of the right and or left collar. When these are fastened the collar stands straight up. Across the chest is a black frog cord. Stitching is present where it is assumed a label once was, no labels are present. The condition of the cape is fair. There is some minor discoloration on the frog cords, hem coming unsewn where it had been doubled up, right button missing under collar, label missing, stains on lining, and possible moth holes in lining.

Biographical / historical:

This style of cape with the red lining was only worn by VPI seniors, a tradtion that had been common. Similar aspects of this cape can be seen as illustrated on page 42 of "Donning the Blue and Gray" by Harry Downing Temple.

Source:

Temple, Harry Downing, "Donning the Blue and Gray", Richmond, VA: William Byrd Press, 1992.

Acquisition information:
The collection was acquired by Special Collections and University Archives prior to 1994.
Processing information:

The processing, arrangement, and description of VPI Cape was completed in June 2025. Preliminary description was completed in 2016.