Handkerchief or Bandana

Date1750-1820

OriginEngland (probably); worn in America

MediumSilk

DimensionsOverall: 71.8 x 76.2cm (selvage width) (28 1/4 x 30in.)

Credit LineGift of Carolyn McMillan

Object number2015-211

DescriptionRed plain-woven silk bandana printed with a repeating design consisting of four rows of six small white squares per row, for a total of twenty-four squares in each rectangular cluster. The clusters are set on the diagonal in an approximate half drop repeat. Between rows are individual square spots. Narrow hand-stitched hems form two ends, while selvages form the other two edge finishes.
ProvenanceBelieved to have descended in the family of Jane Sloan, who married John Eatton LeConte, Sr., in 1776. They were from New York and New Jersey. Descended to donor Carolyn McMillan. Family history stated that the bandana dated to the late eighteenth century and was used by a "Barbary pirate."