Getting it right takes more than a Minute
While athletes pick out the perfect sneaker and spectators finalize their homemade signs for Monday’s Boston Marathon, dozens of Colonial reenactors are putting the final touches on their carefully curated uniforms that will carry them through Patriots Day events in Concord and Lexington on that day.
Concord residents Evan Brender and Cy Beyer are the two newest members of the Concord Minute Men, a group of history reenactors who star in the annual Patriots Day festivities, including parades and fifeand-drum performances, on the holiday.
On Wednesday, the new recruits brought their uniforms of three-corner hats, waistcoats, and other pieces of clothing the reenactors call a “kit” to The Satin Butterfly, a tailor in Maynard.
While each reenactor is responsible for acquiring their own kit, unit leaders strongly encourage a visit to a tailor to make sure they fit just right.
Brender, 36, has spent the past few months pouring over websites dedicated to reenactment clothing. But as his handme-down pants were adjusted and the holes in his vest mended, Brender said he began to feel excited about taking part in Monday’s parades in Concord and Lexington.
“Some of the stuff you get doesn’t fit right, so being able to go to a tailor and have her take in the back of my waistcoat just adds to that look and feel,” Brender said. “It really does almost take you back.”
Beyer, 25, won’t be marching this year, but got his “kit” tailored in anticipation of taking part in future events.
Wednesday was the first time he’s sported a complete uniform.
His favorite part is the vest, which he said looked “classy.” But even after the tailor finishes taking in a pair of brown pants, Beyer said his outfit isn’t quite complete.
“I could also use more comfy socks,” he said.