Images(2)

Uniform, Occupational

Object number2016.29.12 a-c

MediumCotton; Fabric; Plastic; Metal

Credit LineGift of Polk State Center

DescriptionNurse's uniform consising of dress, apron, and cap.DimensionsHeight x Width: 36.75 × 14 in. (93.3 × 35.6 cm) [Width is between shoulder seams]
Height x Width: 39 × 13.5 in. (99.1 × 34.3 cm) [With buttons fastened; Width at waist]
Height x Width x Depth: 10.5 × 14.25 × 0.063 in. (26.7 × 36.2 × 0.2 cm) [Flat dimensions]
Inscriptions(b)
Handwritten text in black ink on interior of waist band "PORTER".
Marks(c)
White fabric maker label at center with blue embroidered text "KAY'S CAPS / NEEDS NO STARCH".
Historical NotesThis uniform was worn by Helen Porter Dudzic, former Direct Care staff member at the Polk State Center. She was from Oil City, Pa. When Polk Center opened in 1897 it became the second institution in Pennsylvania built expressly to house and care for people with intellectual disabilities. The 2,000 acre site in rural Venango County allowed access to Pittsburgh via the railroad, but also isolated residents far from their families. Change in the care of people with disabilities over the past 100 years has influenced the lives of the residents and staff at Polk, as well as the surrounding community. This object is part of a collection that documents that important story. Label TextWhen Polk Center opened in 1897 it became the second institution in Pennsylvania built expressly to house and care for people with intellectual disabilities. The 2,000 acre site in rural Venango County allowed access to Pittsburgh via the railroad, but also isolated residents far from their families. Change in the care of people with disabilities over the past 100 years has influenced the lives of the residents and staff at Polk, as well as the surrounding community. These rare collections document that important story. Today staff at the Polk Center dress in street clothes to reinforce the “Everyday Lives” principle of care for people with disabilities.

Related person Helen Porter Dudzic

Related institution Polk State Center (founded 1897)

Subjects

Terms