Quote Originally Posted by Woodsheal
The short, wide baggy trousers were called "petticoat breeches" or "slops." They were worn over knee-brecches to protect them from tar and other shipboard grime. Canvas aprons - not really kilts - were worn for the same purpose. Longer, less-wide, more typical looking trousers of sea-cloth were also worn instead of knee-breeches....
Canvas aprons, makes sense. Likely, the authors saw a picture of what looked like a skirt and said kilt to make it sound better. They did not realize that they were worn OVER other pants. I was curious about the refernce, it didn't ring right, but I just let it go. But, when I saw it again, I thought I would bring it here for the fount of (and bull) of the FORUM.

I couldn't remember the "correct" name for the "shorts," thanks. I also had not realized they were worn OVER knee-breeches.

I know they also wore hats, covered and dried in various "gunk" to make weather proof caps/hats.

Thanks again,