News Summary
Colonial Williamsburg’s master wigmaker, Debbie Turpin, is dedicated to creating authentic wigs reflective of 18th-century styles. Her craftsmanship plays a pivotal role in historical interpretation, providing accurate hairstyles for figures like George Mason. As the second master wigmaker in the shop’s history, Turpin’s work enhances visitor experiences, inviting them to engage with the past. Each wig is meticulously handcrafted using traditional materials, ensuring historical accuracy in Colonial Williamsburg’s living history museum.
Colonial Williamsburg, Virginia—In a continued effort to preserve 18th-century history, Colonial Williamsburg’s master wigmaker, Debbie Turpin, is crafting authentic wigs that embody the styles of early American life. This commitment to historical accuracy is exemplified by visitors like George Mason, who recently received a handcrafted wig that reflects the era’s fashion standards.
The wig designed for Mason is a brown hairpiece adorned with distinct side curls, known as buckles, and a clubbed queue, characteristic of the period’s formal aesthetics. Turpin, recognized as the second master wigmaker in the shop’s history and the third individual to successfully complete the full apprenticeship, plays a pivotal role in providing accurate hairstyles for historical interpreters. Her list of notable clients includes iconic figures such as Thomas Jefferson, Martha Washington, Patrick Henry, and the Marquis de Lafayette.
Turpin’s responsibilities extend beyond just wig crafting; she ensures that all historical interpreters in Colonial Williamsburg bear authentic hairstyles, enhancing the portrayal of revolutionary figures and giving visitors an immersive experience of 18th-century life. Through her dedication, she has become an essential part of Colonial Williamsburg’s living history museum, which aims to transport guests back in time.
Expert Wig Craftsmanship
The process of creating wigs in the Colonial Williamsburg Wig Shop is meticulous. Each wig is handcrafted using human, horse, and goat hair, strictly adhering to the authentic methods of the 18th century. Turpin and her team maintain an extensive inventory of approximately 600 wigs, which cater to various performances and special events throughout the year.
Modern materials are eschewed in favor of traditional resources, ensuring that the wigs maintain the historical accuracy that Colonial Williamsburg promotes. This commitment to authenticity is critical, as many interpreters and tradespeople rely on these wigs to enhance the realism of their portrayals.
A Passion for History
Debbie Turpin’s journey to becoming a master wigmaker began with her love of historical romance novels, which sparked her interest in studying history. She pursued a major in this field at Christopher Newport University (CNU), where she gained vital knowledge and confidence. After graduating, Turpin worked her way up through various roles in Colonial Williamsburg, eventually becoming an apprentice and achieving the status of master wigmaker.
Throughout her career, Turpin has thoroughly enjoyed sharing her passion for history with visitors. Her role is not solely focused on wig-making; it also includes responding to inquiries about life and customs in 18th-century Williamsburg. By engaging with guests, she effectively creates a rich, historical experience that connects the past with the present.
Historical Context
At Colonial Williamsburg, authenticity is core to the museum’s mission. The Founding Fathers played significant roles in shaping American history, and the attention to details such as hairstyles allows visitors to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the era. Notably, George Washington distinguished himself from his contemporaries by opting to wear his natural hair in public instead of a wig, making his personal choice a fascinating topic of discussion among interpreters.
With each wig crafted by Turpin, Colonial Williamsburg not only preserves history but also invites guests to participate in a dialogue with the past. Her ability to blend craftsmanship with historical education allows for an engaging environment that highlights the significance of each character portrayed. Turpin finds purpose and satisfaction in her work, feeling privileged to be a conduit between the historical and modern-day world.
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Additional Resources
- WYDaily: CNU Alum Thrives as Colonial Williamsburg’s Master Wigmaker
- Grunge: What Life Was Like as a Wigmaker in the Colonial Era
- Daily Press: Annual Colonial Williamsburg Wreath Decorating Contest
- Wikipedia: Colonial Williamsburg
- Washington Post: A Fresh Look at Colonial Williamsburg
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Colonial Williamsburg
Author: STAFF HERE WILLIAMSBURG WRITER
WILLIAMSBURG STAFF WRITER The WILLIAMSBURG STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREWilliamsburg.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Williamsburg, James City County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Williamsburg Farmers Market, Yorktown Market Days, and Busch Gardens Food & Wine Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Williamsburg Chamber of Commerce and Colonial Williamsburg Foundation, plus leading businesses in education and hospitality that power the local economy such as College of William & Mary, The Williamsburg Winery, and Sodexo. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREVirginiaBeach.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Virginia's dynamic landscape.
