Gown

DateCa. 1760

MediumWhite linen tabby lined with white linen tabby; sewn with linen.

DimensionsOL: 27" Waist 16 3/4"

Credit LineMuseum Purchase

Object number1986-212,1

DescriptionSmall child's frock or gown of white tabby linen, lined with coarser white tabby linen in bodice and sleeves. Gown has center front opening all the way down; undecorated scoop neckline; sleeves cut in one with bodice, ending in cuffs. Long full skirt with extra pleats at center back and side seams. Bodice and sleeves lined with coarser white linen. Sewn with 2S linen. For stays, see 1986-212,2.
ProvenancePaper tag accompanying garments reads: "These corsets and dress belonged to my great-grandmother-Elizabeth Davis formerly Elizabeth Butler daughter of Samuel Butler Esq. of Rhode Island and wife of Capt. Robert Davis. They were worn by her when she was one year old. She died in 1815 at the age of 55. These things are at the present date Aug. 18, 1883, 123 years old. And the little white tea pot she had when four (4) years old..it is 119 years old at present date. Jessie Elizabeth Dennis daughter of Lydia Ann Crapon Dennis." It has been suggested that this may be a dress for a boy, as girl's dresses usually fastened at the center back. fastened at the center back.