During the 17th, 18th, and part of the 19th Centuries, women’s clothing did not have
pockets sewn into their clothes. Personal items were carried in pouches tied around the
waist with ribbon or tape and worn under the petticoats for security. These pouches
were called pockets and were often decorated with embroidery.
Pockets sometimes held valuable items. A list of the contents of a pair of pockets stolen
in 1754 included, among other items, a snuffbox, an ivory toothpick case, a silver
thimble, and assorted coins in a green knit purse. Pockets could also be used for more
nefarious purposes. In 1777, Jane Griffiths, a woman of “bad character,” stole two live
ducks from her neighbor by concealing them in her pockets (not entirely sure of how
she accomplished this feat). (Source: Early American Life, June 2025)
The Holliston Historical Society has just such a pocket in its collection (no evidence of
ducks). It dates from 1790 and was made and crewel embroidered by Keziah Lovell,
daughter of Captain Joseph Lovell of East Medway. Her initials are cross stitched near
the bottom of the pocket. It was beautifully preserved by her family and the Society is
fortunate to have such a beautiful item in its collection.
