Field Trip Program

What They Wore

Student dressed as an U.S.-Mexican War laundress.
Student dressed as an U.S.-Mexican War laundress.
Palo Alto Battlefield NHP

Overall Rating

Add your review (0 reviews)


U.S. and Mexican infantry uniforms were made out of wool because of the fabric's properties. Wool wicked sweat away from the soldier's skin. If it rained, wool absorbed the water, keeping the soldier warm and dry. Because wool burns slowly, if a spark got on a soldier's clothing, he could quickly put it out.

Women wore multiple layers for both protection, style, and social pressures.
In "What They Wore," students try-on U.S. and Mexican infantry uniforms and laundresses clothing. They then compare/contrast the uniforms to a modern infantry uniform and to their own clothes. Students will also learn how uniforms protected the soldiers and why women wore so many layers.
This program is available for groups of up to 30 students. Larger groups can be split into smaller groups and the activity can be done multiple times. The program lasts 20 minutes. 


History, Mexican War, Military and Wartime History, Social Studies
National/State Standards:
National Standards:
Gr K-4 Social Studies: U.S. History 2, 3
Gr 5-12 Social Studies: World History Eras 4 & 7
uniforms, hands-on, historic clothing
Field Trip Program

Available Field Trips