It's britches! (or breeches) Was "britches" thought to be a vulgar word in 1846?

This was cleared up by listening to a sample of THINGS I DON'T LIKE TO SEE recorded by Uncle Dave Macon. He sings only a 2-line chorus:

Don't like to see ladies all painted and fine
Smiling at gents that are on the decline.
They'd better be home a-washing up dishes,
Mending their dresses or husband's old britches.

You may call me a "quiz." You may call me a "pry,"
But these are some things that look queer to the eye.