UPDATED JUNE 29, 2012 -- We've identified Moran kinfolk in Iowa, the Cowardin's. It's very possible this boy in the kilt is one of the Cowardin children. For more information about the Iowa Cowardin's be sure to read the Moran Family Blog.
As with most things in the Victorian Era the kilt for boys became fashionable after Queen Victoria began dressing her sons in kilts. However, the appeal of the kilt probably was special to American mothers who were not ready to see their darling sons don long pants or even long kneepants yet. It was commonplace back then for young boys and girls to wear dresses. The kilt filled the gap between dresses and long kneepants as did Lord Fauntleroy and sailor suits.
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| Unidentified friend or relative of the Moran family, ca. 1890's. |
This is an exceptional photo showing a boy wearing long stockings under his kilt. This would only be good in winter to protect his knees.
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