Mary Goodenow's changable silk dress, Farmington, ca. 1852

Contributed by Maine Historical Society

Mary Goodenow's changable silk dress, Farmington, ca. 1852

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Description

Changeable silk, also known as shot silk, involves weaving two or more colors of silk together to create iridescent look, in this instance, red and green. Embroidered green and reddish-brown ivy, roses, and leaf designs compliment the dress. Green velvet trim and buttons add embellishment.

The dress is associated with Mrs. Mary Reed (Culter) Goodenow (1806-1873). She was the wife of Hon. Robert Goodenow, an attorney and politician from Farmington. The dress dates from around the time when Robert Goodenow served as one of Maine's United States Representative to Congress (1851-1853). The brocade fabric is typical for the period, however, the dress shows signs of alteration, including sleeve style.

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About This Item

  • Title: Mary Goodenow's changable silk dress, Farmington, ca. 1852
  • Creation Date: circa 1852
  • Subject Date: circa 1852
  • Location: Farmington, Franklin County, ME
  • Media: silk, cotton, metal
  • Dimensions: 139.700 cm x 342.900 cm
  • Local Code: A86-80
  • Collection: Costume collection
  • Object Type: Physical Object

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For more information about this item, contact:

Maine Historical Society
485 Congress Street, Portland, ME 04101
(207) 774-1822 x230
Website

Use of this Item is not restricted by copyright and/or related rights, but the holding organization is contractually obligated to limit use. For more information, please contact the contributing organization. However, watermarked Maine Memory Network images may be used for educational purposes.

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