Sampler by Ann Jones

Date1786

Maker Ann Jones

MediumSilk and wool embroidery threads on a linen ground of 32 x 32 threads per inch (fiber identification by eye) Wooden frame and glass

DimensionsFramed: OW 9 1/8” x OH 13 3/8” Actual (by sight): OW 6” x OH 10 1/2”

Credit LineGift of Beatrix T. Rumford

Object number2020-86

DescriptionThis is a framed, rectangular needlework sampler worked in shades of yellow, green, blue, brown, natural (faded), and white silk and wool embroidery threads on a linen ground. From the top the sampler consists of:
“A-I”, “K-N” uppercase block worked in cross stitch
Band of cross stitch
“O-Y” uppercase block worked in cross stitch
Band of cross stitch
“Z” uppercase block worked in cross stitch, a cross motif, “1-11” worked in cross stitch, a diamond motif
Band of cross stitch
“AabC” upper and lowercase block worked in cross stitch, “d-I”, “k-n” lowercase block worked in cross stitch, a diamond motif
Band of cross stitch
“o-t”, “vu”, “w-z” lowercase block worked in cross stitch, a diamond motif
Band of cross stitch
“w-z” lowercase block worked in cross stitch, line of eyelet stitch
“A-F” uppercase block worked in eyelet stitch, a diamond motif
Band of eyelet stitch
“GHIKLM” uppercase block worked in eyelet stitch, a diamond motif
“N-S” uppercase block worked in eyelet stitch, a cross motif
Band of eyelet stitch
“TU”, “W-Y” uppercase block worked in eyelet stitch, a square motif
Band of eyelet stitch
“Ann Jones” upper and lowercase block worked in eyelet stitch, a cross motif, “finished” lowercase block worked in cross stitch
“march 10 1786” lowercase block worked in cross stitch, a circle motif
The entire sampler is enclosed in a border of cross stitch
Stitches: cross and eyelet

The sampler is in an old or original frame with old or original hardware.
Label TextAnn Jones probably completed this sampler as a schoolroom exercise. In addition to learning sewing stitches, young girls also practiced their literacy skills while working a sampler. The sampler maker has not been identified.
MarkingsAn inscription on the back of the frame reads: “Purchased by Beatrix T. Rumford/ from Laura Swaine, custodian of/ Mercer “Castle” in Doylestown,/ Pa. in 1974. American + probably/ Bucks County. Given to Rose/ Rumford by B.T.R. Christmas ‘74”
ProvenanceBeatrix T. Rumford (b. 1939) purchased this sampler from Laura Swaine, the custodian of Mercer Castle in Doylestown, Pennsylvania, in 1974. She gave it to her mother, Rose Clymer Rumford (1912-1998), on December 25, 1974. In 2020, Ms. Rumford donated the sampler to Colonial Williamsburg.