Strange Inheritance Season 3 Episode 27 First Fashion Cop
- April 24, 2017
After inheriting a long-forgotten trunk from her great-grandmother, a fashion historian and collector from Pennsylvania soon finds out that she may have come into possession of not only valuable items but also a centuries-old legacy in law enforcement. This is the premise of season 3 episode 27 of Strange Inheritance titled "First Fashion Cop".
The episode follows the story of Teri Kidwell, a fashion historian who inherits a trunk from her great-grandmother, Lizzie Murphy, whom she had never met. Lizzie worked as a fashion cop in the early 1900s, a profession that was virtually unheard of in those times. With the trunk, Teri discovers a treasure trove of fashion-related items, including a badge, a baton, and a handwritten journal that tells the story of Lizzie's pioneering work in law enforcement.
As Teri delves deeper into the history of her great-grandmother, she uncovers the challenges and triumphs that Lizzie faced as one of the first female cops in the United States. She discovers that Lizzie's work as a fashion cop involved enforcing strict dress codes and regulating the attire of women in public places such as beaches, parks, and dance halls. This position was created to protect the public's morality and to ensure that women did not dress in an overly suggestive manner.
The episode also reveals the impact that Lizzie's job had on her personal life, including her romantic relationships. Despite facing ridicule and harassment from men, Lizzie remained committed to her work, which paved the way for future generations of women cops.
As Teri sorts through the contents of the trunk, she uncovers many valuable items, including vintage clothing and accessories that belonged to Lizzie. Teri's goal is to preserve these items and to document Lizzie's legacy in the history of law enforcement and fashion. She also hopes to inspire others to learn about the contributions of women like Lizzie, who blazed a trail in professions that were dominated by men.
"First Fashion Cop" is a touching and informative episode that sheds light on a relatively unknown profession and the women who worked in it. Through Teri's journey of discovery, viewers learn about the challenges and triumphs of one pioneering woman and the impact that her work had on future generations. The episode also highlights the importance of preserving historical records and artifacts that tell the stories of our past.