Historical information

This doily is typical of items of household linen in popular use in the 19th and early-to-mid 20th centuries. It was a tradition for brides to have a 'glory box' containing linen and embroidered and crocheted articles to take to their new home.

The featured image of Captain Cook's Cottage suggests that the doily was embroidered around the time of the transfer of the cottage in Melbourne. The cottage was constructed in 1755 in England and was brought to Australia in 1934 and installed in the Fitzroy Gardens, Melbourne.

In the Words of donor, Betty Stone, …
“These crocheted and embroidered articles cover a period of three generations- ie. Sarah (nee Chamberlain) Lees, Ann (nee Lees) Dale, and Daisy Elvena (nee Dale) Welsh. All three were accomplished needlewomen; also, both Sarah Lees (born 1844) and her daughter, Ann (b 1865) crocheted a wide variety of articles for use in their homes. A few examples of these items have survived the years.”

(NOTE: For additional information please refer to my book Pioneer and Places- A History of Three Warrnambool Pioneering Families ie. Chamberlain, Dale and Lees families)

Significance

This item is associated with the Warrnambool pioneer families of Chamberlain, Dale and Lees. These families are listed in the Pioneers' Register for Warrnambool Township and Shire, 1835-1900, published by A.I.G.S. Warrnambool Branch.
The item is a fine example of 1930's needlework.

Physical description

Doily, ovate in shape. White cotton embroidered with a cottage scene and named "Captain Cook's Cottage"; the image includes flowers, trees and a bird. The edge is crocheted. Part of the Chamberlain Dale Lees Collection.

Inscriptions & markings

Embroidered on doily "Captain Cook's Cottage"