An antique dress bought a decade ago with coded messages dating back from the 19th century was unveiled, revealing it was a U.S. Army Signal Corps weather observation, providing a glimpse into historical meteorological practices.
In 2013, a certain Sara Rivers Cofield spotted a brown dress for sale at an antique mall in Maine. As an archeologist who also collects old dresses and handbags for fun, Sara fell in love with the dress’ metal buttons and elaborate bustle.
Upon bringing the intriguing gown back to her home, Sara discovered a secret pocket hidden under the bustle, inside the seams of the skirt. Further inspection of the secret pocket also revealed crumpled bits of paper.