Images(2)

Pincushion

Date1790

Maker Harriott Simmons (ca. 1760 - 1828)

OriginAmerica or England

MediumLinen and steel

DimensionsOH 6" x OW 12" (with tassels)

Credit LineMuseum Purchase

Object number1954-56

DescriptionThis is a rectangular pincushion with pointed corners made from a natural color linen with linen fringe and tassel at each corner. The pincushion is adorned with steel pins that are set in decorative patterns. At the center front are the initials W.H.S set within two interlocking hearts. The hearts are surrounded by diamond and flower motifs, which are in turn encapsulated by a border that conforms to the shape of the pincushion. A number of isolated motifs as well as single pins fill in the voids left by the main pattern. On the back is a solid heart flanked by two birds as well as the date "FEBRVARY 11 1790" and the letters "MAD".
Label TextDecorative pincushions like this one often commemorated special occasions such as marriages and deaths. This pincushion commemorates the marriage of William and Harriott Simmons, presumably on February 11, 1790. It is unclear whether William and Harriott were married in England or America, however we do know that they lived in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, for most of their married lives.
Inscribed"W.H.S"
"FEBRVARY 11 1790"
"MAD"
ProvenanceMary Page Grymes Richardson (1891-1972) sold this pincushion to Colonial Williamsburg in 1954. Mary was the daughter of Edwin Buford Grymes (1856-1906) and Fannie Dean Thaw (1859-1938). Fannie was the daughter of William Simmons Thaw (1810-1885) and Helen C. Brooks. William was the son of William Thaw (1786-1859) and Harriot A. Simmons (1790-1816). Harriott was the daughter of William Simmons (1757-1842) and the maker, Harriott Simmons (ca. 1760-1828).

History of Maker:

Harriott Simmons was born ca. 1760 and married William Simmons (1757-1842) presumably on February 11, 1790, the date recorded on the pincushion. Harriott died on July 23, 1828 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and is buried in the St. Peters Burial Ground.