American Needlework

As we celebrate the birth of our nation I figured it was appropriate to celebrate the artist's who began the history and lineage of American needlework.
The above image is the supposive very first American Sampler embroidered by Loara Standish, a Mayflower passenger. The story says she embroidered it while waiting for a lover lost at sea. To read its history go here.

early American sampler

During the 18th century sampler designs changed to include the familiar bands around the sides to create borders and include motifs such as the alphabet and everyday scenes.

Rebekah Rider, 1820

Eventually schools were begun where young women learned to do needlework under the watchful eye of a teacher. The amazingly gorgeous sampler above was made by an 8 year old!

a detail of Betsy Ellis Huthchinson, 1831

Samplers often celebrated the genealogical pride of American heritage as seen in Saba Cushman's sampler- in which she notes her ancestors back to the original settlers.

As an artist utilizing the medium of autobiography and needlework I feel proud and honored to be connected to this amazing and inspiring lineage of American women. To read more bout these samplers go to the excellent website here.