Under Dress

Date1871

MediumCotton, Lace

DimensionsOverall Length: 24.5 inches Chest: 22 inches

Credit LineMuseum Purchase

Object number2022-64,19

DescriptionA white cotton Christening under gown that went under 2022-21. Very plain white cotton dress that is completely hand sewn. The skirt of the gown is gathered into a waistband. The neck and waistband are made into casings for draw strings. The gown opens down the center back and closes with the two draw strings and two tiny cloth covered buttons. The lace around the neck edge matches Christening gown 2022-21.
Label TextThis small under dress probably went under Christening Gown 2022-21. They are nearly identical in size, and both have the same edging lace around the neck. This Christening gown and under gown were worn by a series of Medlycotts starting in 1871. It was at least worn by Florence J. Medlycott (1871-1952), Sir Hubert Mervyn Medlycott (1874-1964), Cecily Glyn Medlycott (1892-1973), and James Christopher Medlycott (1907-1986).
InscribedAlong the center back it is marked finely "Medlycott 3." A second inscription is located under it but is hard to read, possibly "Plauker 6" or "Flauker 6."
ProvenanceA collection of 28 pieces of infant clothing (all 2022-64 accession numbers) descended through various branches of the Medlycott family of Ven House in Somerset, England. The baronetcy was created in 1808 and became extinct in 2021 with the death of Sir Mervyn Tregonwell Medilycott, the 9th Baron of Medlycott. Sadly these garments do not have association with specific members of the family, but were all found stored in The Manor House, Sandford Orcas, in Dorset, England, the home of Sir Mervyn Tregonwell Medilycott, the 9th Baron of Medlycott.