Images(2)

Bonnet

Date1800-1815

OriginAmerica, Virginia

MediumCotton

DimensionsBrim: 9 inches Circumference around the caul: 21.5 inches From center back to Center front: 15.5 inches.

Credit LineGift of The Valentine Museum, Richmond, VA

Object number2022-140

DescriptionA bonnet made of white cotton and cord quilted for structure. The bonnet has a deep caul with a swirl pattern with groups of three cord quilted sections radiating out from a circle at center back. The center back is made up of a sperate piece decorated with embroidered flowers and several rows of cord quilting. The caul is attached by gathering to the center back circle. The caul is bordered with a two rows of cord quilting. The deep brim is smoothly attached to the caul and is bordered with three rows of cord quilting and bias sewn cords in groups of alternating ones and threes. The neck edge is has a long cape attached to the lower neck edge.
Label TextIn the late 18th century and through the 19th century, bonnets with deep brims became fashionable to wear. This bonnet with its very deep caul and brim was fashionable in the first quarter of the 18th century. This headwear was not only fashionable but served the practical purpose of shielding the face from the sun.
ProvenanceThis garment was orginially donated to The Valentine Musuem before being transfered to Colonial Williamsburg. The bonnet was once owned by Dolly Madison (1768-1849) who gave it to Elizabeth Collins Lee (1769-1858), one of her closest friends. Elizabeth Collins Lee was the donors great grandmother.

Donor Joseph Collins Lee (1880-1948)
Richard Henry Lee (1839-1885)
Zaccheus Collins Lee (1805-1859)
Richard Bland Lee (1761-1827) married Elizabeth Collins (1769-1858)