Treasure

Davis and I went to see our friend at the barn sale last weekend.  We scrounged around a bit, and found some sturdy old tools and an awesome old galvanized steel washtub.  I asked the owner if he ever comes across sewing patterns, and he told me that he does from time to time, but that his sister (who quilts and sews) usually snatches them up.  He said he'd call me next time he found any.

We looked for a little while longer, and I happened to spy a dusty brown shoe box sitting on one of the tool shelves that was tied up with a brittle strip of cloth.  This was intriguing--I walked over and untied it, eager to see what was inside.  The box was filled with rolls of antique newspaper, tied up with antique strips of cloth similar to the one that tied the box shut.  The cloth ties were all different prints -- much older than feedsack.  The newspaper clippings, I noticed at first glance, looked to be from the early twentieth century.  I didn't need to know anything else--I bought the box for something like $3, excited as can be.  Old newspapers are so fascinating.

Once we loaded up our booty and got in the car to leave, I opened up my treasure box and untied one of the newspaper bundles.  What was this?  The first piece I unrolled was cut into the shape of...a sewing pattern piece!  A collar or facing, to be exact.  Oh my goodness -- this was a box full of patterns! You can imagine my joy. :D

Below are some pictures of one of the best finds I have ever found.  Enjoy!

This is the only bundle that dates back to the '40's.  Check out this girl's playing card bathing suit!

More to come soon about wedding/house! :D

~Bessie