Historical information

The jug cover was made by diagonally overlapping two squares of net fabric and stitching them together. The beads on the cover are used to weigh the cover down and keep it on the jug.

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.”

It was a tradition for brides to have a 'glory box' containing linen and embroidered articles to take to their new home. Many of the items were made by Daisy, a skilled dressmaker. Daisy began her apprenticeship at two shillings and sixpence per week at Miss A. E. Emery's dressmaking establishment at 150-152 Liebig Street, Warrnambool. Considered to be the leading house of fashion in Warrnambool, Miss Emery employed about eight young women who worked long hours to sew elaborate gowns for clients, including wives of graziers who would attend the race carnivals and social functions in Warrnambool.

(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 significant for its association with a ‘glory box’ or hope chest, a tradition of single ladies making and collecting a range of linen and other domestic items in preparation for their future marriage.
The item is a fine example of early 20th-century needlework and handmade domestic items.

Physical description

Jug cover; net fabric eight-point star shape, with white crocheted edges and red, white and green beads on each point. Part of the Chamberlain Dale Lees Collection.