Feathers in Fashion - Conservation Unit

Feathers have been used historically for display. What are some ways that society used bird feathers other than for fashion?

• Military Status

• Show of wealth

• Currency

• Decorative adornment to enhance beauty.

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CCSS.RI.7.2

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CCSS.RL.7.2

CCSS.RL.8.2

At the height of feather fashion, a person walking Central Park in New York City would find how many different species of bird plumage adorning hats?

• 10

• 20

• 30

• 40

One of the most valuable losses on the Titanic would be which cargo?

• Jewels

• Ostrich Feathers

• Egret Feathers

• Gold

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CCSS.RI.2.1

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Why were Ostrich farms a good investment at the height of feather fashion in the late 19th century?

• Farms were actually not a good investment. They were too far away in South Africa to be of use.

• Ostriches were ridden in a game of Ostrich Polo. The spectators lost interest after a series of unfortunate events left the riders injured.

• Owners would trim the feathers from the body of the bird. These feathers would grow back the next season.

• Ostrich meat was a delicacy the aristocrats paid handsomely for in the 19th century.

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CCSS.RI.7.2

CCSS.RI.8.2

CCSS.RL.7.2

CCSS.RL.8.2

CCSS.RL.9-10.2