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Girl's Dress

Original OwnerPossibly originally owned by Mary Marilla Leggett American, 1853 - 1914

Dateabout 1850-1855

MediumHand-stitched cotton, with lace and linen drawstrings

DimensionsPrimary Dimensions (length x width across top): 22 1/4 x 17in. (56.5 x 43.2cm)

Credit LineGift of Mrs. Polly Stone Buck

DescriptionYoung girl's dress of white cotton, with a wide neckline controlled by a drawstring and edged with bobbin lace. The short, straight sleeves are decorated with a band of bobbin lace insertion. The bobbin lace has a simple grid pattern. The bodice is slightly gathered into the waistband. The front is decorated with four vertical rows of the lace insertion. The skirt, which is closely gathered into the waistband, is decorated with three horizontal bands of the lace insertion. The center back opening extends about thirteen inches and fastens with the drawstring and a small thread-covered button and loop at the necklne, and with two buttons (now missing) at the waist.

Object number1980.61.1

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).

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