This looks like the amount of paperwork I need to do to register for classes each semester.

What room was this found in. That may give us a better idea what it could be. To me it looks like a smock due to it not looking like it has a back to it. An apron could also fit how it looks from the finished edges and no buckles. Don't think it was a straight jacket or other restraint but anything is possible for that time period.

Any idea why the switches would be on? Was there some kind of emergancy back then?