The Best Dressed Women in the World Today: A Style Examination of the United States Coast Guard SPARS

Join Tri-Cities Historical Museum Assistant Curator Joshua Simon as he examines how consumerism, especially that associated with dress, and gender were integral components of the SPARS’ experience as enlisted service members, sometimes in contradictory ways. The presentation will also showcase Tri-Cities Historical Museum’s newest exhibit, Ship Shape Sisters: The Women of the Coast Guard SPARS. The stories of some specific SPARS from Michigan and beyond will be highlighted as well in this engaging lecture.

Joshua D. Simon is the Assistant Curator of Exhibits at the Tri-Cities Historical Museum in Grand Haven, Michigan. He also manages the Museum’s collection and is an independent researcher. His research has examined a variety of subjects related to fashion history, including a revival of the Gibson Girl aesthetic in the mid-twentieth century, the style of former First Lady Betty Ford, and sartorial aspects of depictions of Saint Sebastian.

This lecture kicks off our newest lecture series in our 2025 theme Whispers Across the Water that will showcase minority contributions to Great Lakes maritime history and heritage. SPARS are an integral part of United States maritime history. Their groundbreaking service significantly expanded women’s roles in the Coast Guard. By studying the function of gender and dress, we can better understand the experiences of women enlisted in the SPARS.

Lecture Series proudly sponsored by the Nielsen-Wells Grant Fund and Mike and Susan Smith.