This christening gown is believed to have originally belonged to either Nina Ayers (Casement) (1891-1972) or to NIna's mother Mary Frances Balharry (1869-1898) and so may have been made in the mid to late 19th century. Nina and her husband Arthur Ayers farmed at Avonsleigh from 1929.This gown is a testament to women's sewing skills and to the value placed on the clothing of the infant at a Christening ceremony.Cream long line gown, pleated bodice with short sleeves, drawstring neckline. Waist drawstring attached to gathered skirt. Front panel and hem of skirt is embroidered.nina ayers, mary frances balharry, christening gown