Stitches from another time

This sampler was made by Arelise Spalding of Carlisle, Mass., in 1808. Arelise was the youngest of 11 children. Women of the 19th century used samplers to record their embroidery patterns, while girls used them for practice and showing their skills. Both 'plain' needlework (making and mending cloth products) and fancy sewing were an integral part of women's socializing rituals. This sampler was made with silk thread on a linen ground.

(c) Copyright 2000. The Christian Science Publishing Society