Gown
Date1810-1850
MediumSilk and worsted ribbed weave, bodice lined with linen and hem faced with brown glazed cotton; cotton sewing thread.
DimensionsWaist about 36"; OH about 54"; skirt length 41"
Credit LineMuseum Purchase, The Friends of Colonial Williamsburg Collections Fund
Object number2009-43,3
DescriptionWoman's gown of brown silk and worsted ribbed weave textile lined in the bodice with white linen. Fitted bodice with scoop collarless neckline and elbow-length sleeves shaped with tucks on the inner elbows. Bodice made to be pinned closed at center front. Pleated full skirt with drop front or "apron front" creating a "round gown" without a center-front opening.Label TextThe plain silk and wool gown was made for a Philadelphia Quaker woman of the Pennock family in a conservative fashion that takes its origin in 1790s styles. The wearer may have been Sarah Wistar Pennock (1770-1845) or her daughter Sarah, who was born in 1792. The garment was made after 1800, based on the presence of cotton sewing threads that were not available until after that date.ProvenanceProbably worn by Sarah Wistar Pennock (1770-1845) or possibly her daughter Sarah, b. 1792.
