Historical information
19th century Irish linen Christening gown and matching petticoat donated by Ruth Starkey. The Christening gown and petticoat have been in the family for around 170 years, passed to generations. They were sewn by Eliza Lynon in Enniskillen, Northern Ireland. The following history has been provided by Ruth Starkey:
• Town of origin is Enniskillen, Northern Ireland, sewn by Eliza Lynon.
• The gown came to Australia with Eliza Lynon on the Red Jacket in 1855.
• Eliza married Joseph Dobbyn (who was a member of the Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers Regiment) at Christ Church Geelong.
• They built a home at 150 McKillop St, Geelong. Melrose was the name of the home.
• Family name Dobbyn - Joseph Wilson Dobbyn b. 07/04/1844 - d 12/10/1892 and Elizabeth (Eliza b 12/03/1847 d 26/08/1934) and passed to Eliza Jane, Jessie Victoria Mary and Lucy Ellen Dobbyn (sisters).
• Lucy Ellen nee Dobbyn, married Herbert Blunt, Boatbuilder Geelong at Christ Church Geelong
• All lived at 150 McKillop St Geelong over the years
• Passed to Marjorie May Fearn born nee Blunt who was baptized at Christ Church Geelong 29/5/1915
• Passed to Ann Rosemary Starkey nee Fearn
• Passed to Ruth Norelle Starkey (me) I was baptized at Christ Church Geelong.
• I am the great- great granddaughter of Joseph and Eliza and the great granddaughter of Herbert and Lucy.
Physical description
White Irish linen bodiced petticoat with three sets of three pin tucks at hem. Skirt is attached with cartridge pleating and constructed with French seams. The bodice ties at the back with drawstrings at the neck and waist.
