Sampler, about 1850

This is a sampler worked by Alice Ann Monk aged 8 years in about 1850.

The text reads

In Memory of

John Monk who died November 10 1840 aged 6 years and 9 months

Also Mary Monk who died December 18 1844 aged 8 months

Also Charlotte Monk who died November 19 1848 aged 7 months

Also Walter Samuel Monk who died March 28 1850 aged 7 months

 

We fondly linger o'er their dust.

And kiss the lovely brow

Those lips so late with dimples graced

Are pale and silent now

Bet let our sorrows cease to flow

God has recalled his own

And let our heart in every woe

Still say thy will be done

 

(in tomb) they sleep in death

Alice Ann Monk her work

aged 8 years

 

You can see a similar sampler here.

SH.1993.109

 

Samplers were first made in the 1400s or 1500s as a way of remembering different types of stitches or patterns. Over time they evolved into pieces of work made by young girls, proving their knowledge and patience.

 

The Herbert has over 60 samplers in its collection. With volunteers from NADFAS we have recently completed a project to improve their storage and to make them more accessible. You can see some of the samplers on display at the Herbert in the History Gallery, Connected and in What's in Store.

Done