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Dress

Original OwnerOriginally owned by Charlotte Perkins American, 1790 - 1873

Date1805-1810

MediumHand-stitched cotton muslin

DimensionsPrimary Dimensions (width at waist x length): 16 1/2 x 52in. (41.9 x 132.1cm)
Hem (circumference): 67in. (170.2cm)

Credit LineGift of Mr. and Mrs. Alfred H. Terry

DescriptionWoman's dress of sheer, white muslin embroidered with white cotton dots throughout and stylized floral garlands and sprays around the hem. The dress is styled with a very high waistline (1 3/8 inches below the armhole), a wide square neckline, and short, slightly puffed sleeves. The dress is entirely unlined. (A separate, reproduction pink underdress currently lines the dress). The closure is at center back, with a drawstring at the neckline and waistline. The skirt is flat in front and gathered in back. The sleeves are set into the armhole smoothly in front and slightly gathered in the back. The back dress bodice is narrow--about 6 1/2 inches from armscye seam to armscye seam. The fit of the top edge of the bodice front is controlled by a drawstring.

Object number1959.11.2

NotesHistorical Note: Miss Charlotte Perkins (1790-1873), daughter of Enoch and Anna Pitkin Perkins, may have worn this dress to the Hartford Dancing Assemblies in 1805.

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