Identity area
Reference code
2019.87
Title
ICI [Imperial Chemical Industries] Donkey Jacket Duffle Coat
Date(s)
- undated 1960-1984 (Creation)
Level of description
Item
Extent and medium
1
Context area
Name of creator
(1888-1984)
Administrative history
In 1888 George Key set up his own mail order and uniform business on the second floor of his father's drapers shop in Rugeley, Staffordshire. Later that year George introduced a new type of coat made of thick, hard-wearing material, which he had developed for the navvies who were building the Manchester Ship Canal. The coat became known as the Donkey Jacket named after the donkey engines that some of the navvies worked on.
Repository
Archival history
Immediate source of acquisition or transfer
Content and structure area
Scope and content
Black wool duffle coat with neon/flourescent orange shoulder panels and cuffs made of coated cotton. There is a square black wool badge printed in white with the ICI circular logo stitched onto left chest. It fastens with three wooden toggles and navy cord at the centre front. The orange panels run over the shoulders to the cover the back yoke and are top stitched with black thread. The coat is not finished to a high standard - the inside seams are left raw at the neck. It has two large front patch pockets and neck tabs with button fastenings.
Appraisal, destruction and scheduling
Accruals
System of arrangement
Conditions of access and use area
Conditions governing access
Conditions governing reproduction
Language of material
Script of material
Language and script notes
Physical characteristics and technical requirements
Label: George Key (Rugeley) Ltd / Keystone Works / Rugeley / Staffs.
Materials: wool, coated cotton
Materials: wool, coated cotton