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2011-3, Sampler
Sampler, Map of Maryland by Ann Crookshank
2011-3, Sampler

Sampler, Map of Maryland by Ann Crookshank

Dateca. 1800
Maker Ann Crookshank
OriginAmerica, Maryland, Baltimore (probably)
MediumSilk embroidery threads on a linen ground of 42 x 46 threads per inch
DimensionsOH: 13 3/4" x OW: 17 1/8"
Credit LineMuseum Purchase
Object number2011-3
DescriptionThis is a needlework map sampler of the State of Maryland worked by Ann Crookshank in shades of black, red, and green silk embroidery threads on a fine linen ground. Worked in silk embroidery threads are the county names of: Allegany, Washington, Frederic, Baltimore, Harford, Montgomery, Cecil, Calvert, Kent, Queen Anne, Talbot, Dorchester, Somerset, St. Marys, Charles, Worcester, Annarundel [sic] and Prince George and the city name of Baltimore. At the top of the sampler worked in silk embroidery threads is " 3 Longitude West 2 From Philadelphia 1 0." Below this is "STATE OF PENNSYLVANIA" and NEW/JERSEY." Also embroidered on the map sampler are: "DELAWARE BAY," "POTOMAC," STATE/ OF/ VIRGNIA," "POTOMAC," ATLANTIC," "STATE OF DELAWARE," and "CHESAPEAKE BAY." A cartouche in the left bottom corner contains the embroidered inscription "STATE OF/ MARYLAND." Above this is an embroidered mariner's compass. At the bottom of the sampler is: "7 8 Longitude West 7 7 From London 7 6." Long the right side is "3 [?] and "as" and along the left side is "89" and "[?]8." The signature in eyelet stitches at the bottom of the sampler reads "ANN CROOKSHANK."
Stitches: chain, cross over two, eyelet, four sided, half cross, herringbone, and straight
Label TextAmerican map samplers are rare but the State of Maryland can boast of more than most regions of the New Republic. They represent the earliest American map embroideries identified. About ten examples dating from 1797 to 1816 are known.

Ann Crookshank’s map sampler was probably based on a composite of Maryland printed maps made after the District of Columbia was created in 1791. It details the counties of the state and the only city shown is Baltimore. Also depicted are parts of the adjoining states of Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware, and Virginia.

Very little is known of Ann Crookshank. She was probably the daughter of John Crookshank of Elk Neck in Cecil County, Maryland.

InscribedSee description.
ProvenanceEx-collection of Joyce and Bill Subjack; no further provenance is known.