Girl's Dress
Original OwnerProbably originally owned by
Mary Marilla Leggett
(American, 1853 - 1914)
Clothing MakerMade by
Unknown
Dateabout 1850-1855
MediumHand-stitched cotton, with thread-covered bone or horn buttons, hand-made bobbin lace, and hand embroidery
DimensionsPrimary Dimensions (length x width across top): 23 x 15 1/2in. (58.4 x 39.4cm)
ClassificationsCostume
Credit LineGift of Mrs. Polly Stone Buck
Object number1980.61.3
DescriptionGirl's dress of white cotton, with a wide neckline edged with bobbin lace. The bodice has vertical insertions of bobbin lace, and the short sleeves have two rows of lace insertion and an edging of whitework embroidery. The full skirt is gathered into the waistline. It is decorated with three rows of lace insertion. The hem is edged with three-inch-deep scalloped whitework embroidery. The center back opening extends 11 1/2 inches and fastens with a drawstring at the neckline and five thread-covered buttons (one is missing). The waistband is lined with self-fabric.
NotesHistorical Note: According to the donor, Laura Leggett Seymour (b. 1873) wore this dress in Europe and in Washington D.C. She believes that Laura's father, Henry Albert Seymour, Jr., worked in the State Department. However, the date of this dress indicates that is was more likely worn by Laura's mother, Mary Marilla Leggett Seymour (1853-1914).Status
Not on view
