Samplers and Samplermakers: Girls’ Education in the Early 19th Century

Samplers stitched by school girls give us a unique window into women’s education. Basic samplers showed proficiency with basic stitches necessary for running a household, a practice book or resume for potential employer. More detailed samplers show familiarity with more complex needlework or religious themes. At formal schools for wealthy families, samplers were a tool to teach science and math. Girls stitched globes and detailed maps of cities or their home states. These objects are more than proof of skilled stitching and literacy; they are part of global networks of trade and ideas in the early 19th century. 

Seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Tickets are not required for this event.

About the Speaker

Lydia Wood has a background in museum collections management and provenance research. She has done work around repatriation and provenance in Native American collections and collections of human remains. She has a master’s in museum anthropology and is working on her MLIS at Drexel University. Her other research interests include the history of far-right extremism and historic American needlework.

About the Series

Science on Tap is a monthly speaker series that features brief, informal presentations by Philadelphia-based scientists and other experts followed by lively conversation and a Q&A. The goal is to promote enthusiasm for science in a fun, spirited, and accessible way, while also meeting new people. Come join the conversation!