Philip Alexander Bruce in Colonial Garb

Philip Alexander Bruce, a historian who wrote extensively about early Virginia history, poses in colonial garb for a studio portrait made at the Davis Gallery in Richmond. Bruce wears the outfit of a colonial-era gentleman—powdered wig, breeches, waistcoat, frock coat, and buckled shoes. In his hand he holds a tricorn hat, a popular accessory throughout the Revolutionary War period. This cabinet card photograph was probably made late in the nineteenth century, when that photographic format was popular.

Citation: Papers regarding Philip Alexander Bruce's historical writings and personal correspondence, 1899–1940. Accession #2889. Special Collections, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Va.