Contributed by Maine Historical Society
Description
These kidskin leather slipper-style shoes are associated with Elizabeth Bartlett Wadsworth (1753-1825), wife of General Peleg Wadsworth. Ink markings on the inside of each shoe read “Worn in camp/Dorchester Mass/by Mrs. Gen'l Wadsworth. /1775"
However, the shoe style is not as old as the inscription suggests. The pointed-toe slipper shoe became popular about 1790, initially with a raised heel. By 1800, heels flattened out, and the pointed toe gave way to a rounded toe by 1810. Based on the style, these slippers are likely from about 1795 to 1805.
It's possible these shoes were mis-associated with a poignant time in Elizabeth’s life. The couple’s first child, Alexander, reportedly died in August 1775 at the Dorchester fortification when Peleg—then a militia captain— was stationed nearby. While the shoes themselves date about twenty years later, the 1775 inscription recalls an important family experience.
About This Item
- Title: Elizabeth Wadsworth's leather slippers, Portland, ca. 1800
- Creation Date: circa 1800
- Subject Date: circa 1800
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Locations:
- Portland, Cumberland County, ME
- Dorchester, Boston, Suffolk County, MA
- Media: leather, linen
- Local Code: A85-807
- Object Type: Physical Object
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For more information about this item, contact:
Maine Historical Society485 Congress Street, Portland, ME 04101
(207) 774-1822 x230
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