“Christmas gift Remember me,”

This is a particularly appealing little piece that was made by a young needleworker for her catechetic teacher; a handwritten note and photo of the maker remained with it all these years, providing significant context and documentation. It may have been intended to be a small fold-over case, perhaps for calling cards. The vignette of two deer under a spreading tree is delightful.

The note was addressed to Mr. G. W. Aughinbaugh, “Starlight mansion” Emmitsburg, MD and it reads, “Will my Dear Mr. Aughinbaugh accept this small token of affection from his little catechetical scholar.” The given name of the maker, Miss Smith, is difficult to read clearly, the place and date are Emmitsburg, April 2, 1846.

Rev. George W. Aughinbaugh (1819-1913) was a Reform clergyman in Maryland and Pennsylvania. The 1850 census indicates that he was a G. R. Minister living in Emmitsburg with his family. 

Quite wonderfully, the needlework and note are also accompanied by a beautiful photograph portrait of the maker.

Worked in silk on linen, it is in excellent condition and has been conservation mounted into a gold frame.

portrait of and letter from maker