Chemise
Original OwnerProbably originally owned by
Emeline Beebe
American, 1824 - 1861
Clothing MakerMade by
Unknown
Dateabout 1855
MediumHand-stitched linen
DimensionsPrimary Dimensions (length x width across top including sleeves ): 46 1/4 x 25 1/2in. (117.5 x 64.8cm)
Other (width across bottom): 43in. (109.2cm)
Other (width across bottom): 43in. (109.2cm)
ClassificationsCostume
Credit LineGift of Katharine Beebe
DescriptionWoman's chemise of white linen, with short, gathered sleeves and wide neckline. The sleeves are finished with a piped band of whitework embroidery, edged with a faggoted and scalloped whitework trim. This same band surrounds the neckline. A 5 1/2-inch-long placket at center front is also trimmed with a scalloped edging of whitework embroidery. It fastens at the top with two studs, as indicated by the opposing buttonholes. The sleeves are cut square under the arm, then folded on the diagonal to create a gusset-like fullness. A 1 3/4-inch-wide strip of lining reinforces the armhole. The front and back panels of the chemise are gathered into the band surrounding the neckline. They are pieced with triangles at the side seams to create the desired width. The hem is one inch deep. Seams are selvage-to-selvage or flat felled.
Object number1974.86.13
InscribedHand written in ink on center front opening placket: "Emeline Beebe/ No 16." in fine script.NotesGenealogical Notes: There were two women in the Beebe family named Emeline. Comparing the dating of the chemise to the life dates of the two, it was mostly likely owned by Emeline Beebe (1824-1861), daughter of [Silas] and Nancy Breed Beebe. (Blakelock 1/2002)Subject Terms
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