1870-1873 Tan Linen Dress

Tan and white print cotton one-piece machine-stitched dress with brown trim. Flat, pointed collar is one layer of tan/white fabric edged in light brown cotton bias mitred (poorly) at corners and machine topstitched in black thread (only use of black thread in dress). The collar is hand-sewn to a band that is itself hand-sewn to the inside of the banded jewel neckline of the bodice. Neck band closes with brass hook and loop.

HCT.1997.2.5

1869-1875

This dress more than likely belonged to Mary Anne Sheets who lived from 1830-1915. Mary was the third child of seven born to Isaac Sills Sheets and Nancy Knoop Sheets. Isaac owned a large farm in Miami County, Ohio. After Nancy's death in 1862, Mary and her older sister, Lizzie (Elizabeth), were in charge of the home and remained there until their father's death. When he died in 1876, Elizabeth moved to her own farm and Mary remained as housekeeper for her brother George until his marriage in 1885. She did, however, remain living on the property.

Flat Collar, Barrel Sleeve, Hourglass Silhouette

Dress is a blend of cotton and flax

1870-1879

Brown light