Sampler, 1787
Did you ever write in your books: Your Name—town—state—country—continent—the world—the solar system—the universe? Some samplers have a simpler version of this.
Abigail Whiting explains her birth and age before placing herself geographically. Concluding “when I am dead…” suggests she listed these facts so viewers might remember her after her death. And we do.
Made by Abigail Whiting, age 18, Wrentham, Massachusetts. Silk thread on linen ground. Gift of Elizabeth Schwinn 2011.41.3
Inscription:
Dec the 28 1787 I was born February 28 1769 and I am now in the 19 year of my age
Abigail Whiting is my name/ new England is my station/ Wrentham is my dwelling place/ and Christ is my salvation / When I am dead and worms me eat/ here you may see my name complete