A box-back suit was popular in the 30's and 40's and was characterized by having a squared, box like appearance. It was unfitted and hung straight without tucks or pleats. It may or may not have a center seam.

It was mentioned in Phil Harris's song, "That's What I Like About the South"; "Here come ole Bob with all the news; Got the box-back coat and the button shoes; Well he's all caught up with his union dues; And that's what I like about the South". It was also mentioned in Cab Calloway's version of "St. James Infirmary": "Now, when I die, bury me in my straight-leg britches; Put on a box-back coat and a Stetson hat; Put a twenty-dollar gold piece on my watch chain; So you can let all the boys know I died standing pat."

The mention of "button shoes", "Stetson hat", "20 dollar gold piece" and "watch chain" all point to a man who has pride in his appearance and in this finery, is a cut above average. Adding that he was paid up in his dues and owed no one were both prideful statements.

Thus, this box-back coat was something a little out of the ordinary that served as a status symbol.

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