Silk Purse owned by Sally Adams, with papers regarding her tenure as a student at Mary Balch's school,
Providence, Rhode Island,
1813

Price: $8400

Enlarged and Printer Version

While not an impressive needleworked item in itself, this fine silk purse and its contents descended in the family of its maker and owner, Sarah Adams, who had been a boarding student at Mary Balch's school in Providence, Rhode Island. The papers include many fascinating letters, invitations, and notations of merit, all of which date from the period in 1813 during which Sally attended the Balch school. The two most interesting papers are a personal note signed by Miss Balch, which states, "Miss Adams has distinguished herself during the past week for regularity of conduct and assiduous application to study, which are attended with manifest progression in learning. Young Ladies Academy – Providence 16th June 1813 Miss Balch" and a card printed with the "Terms of Miss Balch's Academy, George Street, Providence," which lists the various options offered at the school including "Arithmetic, English Grammar, Geography with Maps and Globes, History" and "Embroidery…. all kinds of Needlework" for a fee beyond that of the basic education. Additionally, washing was offered to the students at 25 cents weekly and Music and Dancing at $10 and $6 per quarter respectively. The information included in this purse provides a fascinating glimpse into the 1813 school year at this illustrious Academy.

Sarah Adams was born circa 1795 in Wilbraham, Hampden County, Massachusetts and in 1816 married Rev. Eliakim Phelps of Belchertown, Mass. They lived in various towns and cities as the Reverend received increasingly more important positions. In 1835 he was elected Secretary of the American Educational Society of Philadelphia. The Phelps had five children and Sarah died in Philadelphia in 1845. The purse descended to her son Austin Phelps who was a prominent clergyman, author and theologian and the subject of a memoir entitled, Austin Phelps, by his daughter, E.S. Phelps. An original copy of this 1892 book accompanies the purse.

The purse measures roughly 3¾" x 5¾" closed and is made of silk over cardboard, in the style of small purses and pocketbooks of the period. The price includes the purse and all of its contents. The framed case we had made to display the purse may accompany it, as well, if so desired. This frame has been fitted with museum quality UV protective glass.

Considering buying this sampler?
We suggest you let us know that you are interested. We will be happy to:

You may contact us by phone, fax or email (see below) or complete our quick Contact Me form and we will respond promptly.

How to Buy
Includes information regarding payment, return privilege, and shipping to any location.