Images(4)

Pillowcases, Marked "EHB"

Date1820-1827

Maker Emily Hannah Badger Smith (1806 - 1882)

OriginAmerica, Pennsylvania, Reading

MediumLinen, cotton marking threads

DimensionsA. EHB 2: 39 1/4 L X 17 1\4" W B. EHB 5: 39 1/4" X 17 1/4" W

Credit LineGift of Beatrix T. Rumford

Object number2006-101,A&B

DescriptionThese are two pillowcases of white plain-woven linen. The pillowcases are marked with red cotton cross stitching: Pillowcase "A" is marked EHB 2; Pillowcase "B" is marked EHB 5. Both are constructed with half-inch hems that are folded over and closely stitched. The selvages are butted together and closely stitched to form the long side seams, and the narrow end is closely stitched with a flat fell seam.

Pillowcase B has yellow staining at fold lines. Both cases are in otherwise strong condition.
Label TextThese fine linen pillowcases were made by Emily Hannah Badger prior to her marriage in 1827 to Levi Bull Smith. She carefully cross stitched her initials EHB and the number of the set on each of the cases. The marking aided in identifying and inventorying the cases during laundry.

Stitched in Time:
Cross or marking stitch practiced on childhood samplers later appeared on the household textiles of adulthood. It was used to label table and bed linens and clothing. This could include the owner's initials, the year made, and/or an inventory number, allowing households to keep track of textiles during laundry, seasonal changes, or in case of theft.

Emily Hannah Badger carefully cross-stitched her initials, EHB, onto these pillowcases, as well as the number 5. We can assume that she had at least 5 pillowcases and that they were made prior to her 1827 marriage to Levi Bull Smith.
Markings"EHB 2"
"EHB 5"
ProvenancePrior to 1827, made by Emily Hannah Badger (Bucksport, ME and Reading, PA); prior to 2006, passed by descent to Beatrix T. Rumford (Lexington, VA); 2006-present, given to The Colonial Williamsburg Foundation (Williamsburg, VA)