Graduation Attire

Men's folk costume. Made in the USA, 1980s.

The folk costume belonged to Latvian-American Kristaps Hinkle (1966–2017). It was made when Kristaps began his studies at the Gaŗezers Summer High School. Kristaps also wore the folk costume while dancing in the “Mēnestiņš” folk dance ensemble in Syracuse. He also took part in Syracuse’s annual Festival of Nations, where dancers in folk costumes presented the Latvian cultural programme. Kristaps also performed in this folk costume at other events organised by the Baltic community, as well as at song and dance festivals in Canada and America. He also wore the folk costume while studying at the Latvian Studies Center in Kalamazoo, MI, USA.

Donated by Maija Hinkle. From the collection of the Latvians Abroad Museum and Research Centre (LP2020.96).

Kristaps Hinkle in his folk costume at the graduation ceremony of the Gaŗezers Summer High School in 1985. Donated by Maija Hinkle. From the collection of the Latvians Abroad Museum and Research Centre.