Shift
Date1807-1815
OriginAmerica, New Jersey
MediumTwo different qualities of tabby linen, sewn with linen.
DimensionsOL: 24 1/2" OW: 31"
Credit LineGift of Mrs. Richard Killion.
Object number1991-106
DescriptionGirl's shift made of two different natural tabby weave linens, pieced together. Shift has undecorated low rounded neckline, hemmed toward the outside, with center front slit extending down 2 1/2". Sleeves are slightly gathered at top of armhole, with gusset under arm; ends of sheeves are open, without wrist band, hemmed toward the outside. Shift has fullness created by long triangular pieces beginning several inches under the sleeve gussets, extending down to an additional linen piece extending the length of the garment. The triangular side gores and the band at the hem are a different textile from the body and sleeves.Label TextChild's Shift
Middlesex County, New Jersey, worn by Mary Compton, 1807-1815
Linen
G1991-106, gift of Mrs. Richard Killion
This girl's shift shows evidence of alterations over its lifetime. The triangular pieces that add flare to the sides and the wide band at the hem are made of coarser linen than the sleeves and upper body. Apparently, a baby shirt was converted to a shift as the girl grew. According to family history, Mary Compton (later Mrs. George Greason), wore this shift as a child. She was born in 1807.
ProvenanceAccording to family history, the shift was worn by Mary Compton, born in 1807 in New Jersey. She married George Greason and had a daughter Matilda, born 1842.
