Bonnet

Reason for Special 4000: Shows simplicity of form and exquisite workmanship that Quaker hats were renowned for, indicated by fine stitching across crown and beautiful curve of brim. Instead of the deep pleats often used by Quakers, this model is gathered where the crown meets the brim, giving the illusion of being pleated. While Quaker fashion followed the trends of the day, Quaker bonnets kept to a plainer style with only minor changes. Designed in a capote style, these bonnets followed an 1840s sensibility in the angle of the brim with little or no change in the depth. The stiffness and tan color are distinctive features of Quaker bonnets. Given such reasons, Quaker bonnets are difficult to date.

Accession records note "belonged to Mrs. John J. Merritt, great grandmother of Winthrop Trowbridge who lived at 114-116 Columbia Heights from 1827-1871"