Images(3)

Woman's Watch Chain, Beadwork

Date1830-1840

Maker Mary A. Wilson

OriginAmerica, Massachusetts (probably)

MediumGlass beads, silk ribbons, linen or cotton warps

DimensionsWith Ribbon: OL 41" x OW 3/8" Without Ribbon: OL 34" x OW 3/8"

Credit LineAcquisition funded by Gordon and Kim Ivey

Object number2010-68

DescriptionThis is a long, narrow beadwork strip ending in two blue ribbons. The white beads on a blue beaded background form motifs that include crosses, diamonds, chalices, and keys. The beaded chain is signed in white beads "Mary A Wilson."
Label TextAlso known as “watch guards,” beaded watch chains were popular amongst women during the 1830s, especially in New England. Many chains were made as presents for a loved one, while others were available to purchase ready-made. It is possible that the fashion for beaded watch chains originated in female academies and seminaries, where students sometimes learned beadwork alongside other crafts. Each chain was decorated with a unique pattern of symbolic motifs. Sometimes, chains also included a name, date, or verse.
ProvenanceColonial Williamsburg purchased this piece from Donna Finegan Antiques. Donna Finegan Antiques purchased it from an antiques dealer in Concord, Massachusetts, who in turn obtained it from a local house sale.

History of Maker:

There are at least two women who could be the Mary Ann Wilson who made this watch chain. One was born on September 13, 1807 to Silas and Mary Wilson of Jaquith, Massachusetts and married John Waitt Crafts on September 1, 1836. Another, a Mary Ann Poole of Concord, Massachusetts, married Calvin Wilson on September 2, 1824.