Reticule or Drawstring Purse
PeriodCirca 1900
Place MadeU.S.A.
MediumCotton, linen
Dimensions12 × 8 in. (30.5 × 20.3 cm)
ClassificationsCostume, Women's
Credit LineGift of Rita A. Hawkins, 2010
Object number2010.4.2
DescriptionA woman's rectangular drawstring purse, also known as a reticule, of white cotton lace panels with a double loop drawstring casing along the top of the purse. A pair of sturdy woven round cotton cords are threaded through the double casing, allowing the bag to be closed by pulling both loops. Each loop is ornamented with a pair of "bobbles,," ovoid wood beads with white cotton crochet coverings. Five additional bobbles are sewn as fringe along the bottom edge of the bag. The purse is lined with woven white linen.NotesThis charming summer handbag was owned and used by Fair Haven resident Frances Chandler Hawkins. Frances was born in 1874 to Louis O. and Anna Ketcham Chandler in Fair Haven. Frances married fellow Monmouth resident George A. Hawkins, who was born in Red Bank. The Hawkins family lived in Fair Haven where George Hawkins, a well-respected carpenter, contractor, and builder, served as overseer of the poor for Fair Haven as well as being active in local politics. Rita A. Hawkins, donor, is the granddaughter of Frances Chandler Hawkins.
Collections
Elizabeth "Betty" Dorn
Micah Williams
