Images(2)

Pillowcase, Marked "E.C. 2"

Date1832-1850

Maker Mrs. Elizabeth Clifford Morris Canby , probably 1813 - 1892

OriginAmerica, Pennsylvania, Philadelphia

MediumCotton (fiber identification by microscope)

DimensionsOH: 20 3/4" x OW: 13 1/2"

Credit LineGift of Beatrix T. Rumford

Object number2006-96

DescriptionThis is a small rectangular pillowcase made of white plain-woven cotton with one pair of 3/8-inch wide twill tape ties stitched to the interior for holding a pillow in place. The opening is finished with a half-inch hem and the construction seams are finished to prevent raveling. The pillowcase is marked in ink, "E.C. 2" for the owner Elizabeth Canby.

The case has sharp creases and a few frayed holes.Label TextThis small pillowcase was probably intended for a child's crib. The tape ties served to hold the inner pillow in place during use. The ink inventory marking, "E.C.2," refers to the original owner and probable maker, Elizabeth Clifford Morris (Mrs. Samuel) Canby.Mark(s)"E.C. 2"ProvenanceUsed and probably made by Elizabeth Clifford Morris Canby (8-9-1813 to 3-10-1892). Elizabeth was married on 6-25-1832 to Samuel Canby (1811-1875). The couple resided in Philadelphia.
The pillowcase came with a hand-written note reading "Pillowcase with inked / initials of / Elizabeth (C.M.) Canby / 8.9.1813 - 3.10.1892 / Married 6.25.1832 / Samuel Canby / 7.10.1811 - 6.20.1875."