The Costume Project
Bringing History to Life
The Historic New Castle Costume Project brings our town's remarkable history to life through the simple joy of dressing the part. Using period-inspired costumes and props, we invite visitors, residents, students, and business owners alike to step into Historic New Castle's story.
Whether you are strolling down Delaware Street in colonial garb, celebrating a Victorian holiday at Spirit of Christmas, going to an historical ball or gala, doing period crafts on the Green, posing with family and friends in front of the fire truck or beside the William Penn statue, dressing up helps you feel a part of that centuries-old storyline that makes this small community one of the most important in American history. Our goal is to deepen both local pride and national awareness of New Castle's civic identity, while sparking the kind of energy and regional participation that helps our community thrive.
A Day in Old New Castle 2026
The project had its first real test at A Day in Old New Castle, and the response exceeded everything we'd hoped. Vendors and residents borrowed costumes to wear all day, and visitors lined up at our living-history set and photo booth to try them on. We watched newlyweds, families, friend groups, grandparents, and especially children light up, everyone laughing, posing, and walking away with photos and memories to share.
Behind the scenes, a team of talented volunteers had spent two months transforming rooms in the Methodist Church into a working sewing studio, fitting room, and costume storage, producing more than twenty wearable costumes from undergarments to gowns. It was our proof of concept, and it surpassed our expectations.
That's the kind of initiative that we are building in The Costume Project. It's a service to the community, both residents and visitors. It will support educational outreach and historical research. It will be integrated into other programs, events, exhibits, and celebrations.
Get Involved
If you want to help sew costumes, donate items, or support our work in other ways, please complete the form below and we'll be in touch!
