Object Record
Images
Metadata
Object Name |
Coverlet |
Common Name |
Bedspread |
Catalog Number |
1979.7 |
Maker |
Muir Brothers |
Date |
1852 |
Material(s) |
Wool/Linen |
Dimensions |
H-77.25 W-74 inches |
Description |
This blue wool and white wool Jacquard coverlet is woven in two panels and seamed at the center. Using the edge with the sleeve as the top: there are five and one-half octagons per vertical row. There are four octagons per horizontal row. The row with the half octagons is the top of the coverlet. Each octagon has a four sided design that has bell flowers pointed outward at each edge. There is a diamond shaped design in the center that has a daisy in the middle. Each octagon is separated by straight lines of blue weaving Each corner where the octagons meet has a blue flower with a white center. There is a five inch border on three sides. The right and left borders a run of bellflowers and leaves. The bottom border is a run of daisy-like flowers with leaves. The two bottom corners of the coverlet are squares with an acanthus leaf-like design. Woven into the design are the numbers "1852". One corner is reversed so the number is legible from both sides. The bottom edge of the coverlet has a blue and white fringe. |
Notes |
This coverlet was woven by Scottish immigrants, the Muir Family, in Indiana in 1852. The first brother to immigrate, Robert, married Agnes Gilmour, a sister to the Gilmour weavers. It is possible that Robert got this pattern from the Gilmours, as he worked with them on various occasions. Members of the Muir family are documented in Missouri and Indiana, making it quite likely that they passed through Kentucky. John Muir was in Greencastle Township, Putnam County, Indiana in 1850. Robert Muir was in Liberty Township, Delaware County, Indiana in 1844, and joined Joseph Gilmour in Missouri in 1853. Thomas Muir was in Indianapolis by 1850. William Muir was in West Indianapolis, Indiana in 1850. |
Collection |
Walker M. Lake Collection |
People |
Muir Brothers Gilmour Brothers |
Subjects |
Textiles Weaving Bedspreads |
Search Terms |
Coverlet Indiana |
Physical Holder |
Kentucky Historical Society - KHS |