Historical information

This hand-made doll's apron was created using machine and hand stitching, by Phoebe Lowell, a 10-year-old schoolgirl in 1913. It was purchased in the late 1990s by the donor who later moved to Emerald but, at the time, had a 2nd hand decoration shop in Camberwell when she purchased this as part of a group of garments which included bloomers, lace collars and cuffs, camisoles etc - all of which have been donated to the Museum. The donor was advised at the time of her purchase that the garments were over 100 years old although this would not have been the case for this doll's apron.

Significance

This doll's apron is a reminder of the tuition which schoolgirls routinely received in sewing and embroidery as these were considered essential skills for a future housewife.

Physical description

Very small cream-colored doll's apron with waistband and buttonhole but no button. Pleat running along the width of the apron above the hemline. Decorative herringbone stitching.

Inscriptions & markings

On small label accompanying piece, handwritten: 'Phoebe Lowell / Age 10 / Form II'