Antique 1836 Alphabet Needlework Sampler by Susanna Wire

This is a nineteenth-century needlework sampler stitched on a linen or fine canvas ground, presented in a dark-toned decorative frame. The piece features a prominent strawberry vine border with green leaves and red berries encircling several rows of alphabets in varying scripts (lower-case, block capitals, and cursive) and a numerical sequence. Beneath the alphabets is a religious verse that reads: 'Order my footsteps by thy word, And make my heart sincere, Let sin have no dominion Lord, But keep my conscience clear.' The piece is signed 'Susanna Wire's work, Earlytown, Sept 13th 1836,' providing a specific date and maker. Measuring approximately 12-14 inches square within the frame, the sampler shows signs of age-appropriate condition including overall yellowing of the fabric, minor foxing/spotting, and some unevenness in the tension of the ground material. The stitching remains vibrant in areas, particularly the red and green silk or wool threads, though some fading is evident. The craftsmanship is of a high standard for a young student, showcasing a mastery of cross-stitch and specialty border stitches typical of early Victorian-era domestic education.

I have virtually examined this 1836 American needlework sampler by Susanna Wire. The piece exhibits the hallmark characteristics of New England or Mid-Atlantic schoolgirl needlework from the early Victorian period. The inclusion of a specific date (September 13th, 1836), the maker’s name, and the location (Earlytown) significantly enhances its provenance and desirability among collectors of historic textiles. The strawberry vine border is a classic motif, and the verse, derived from Isaac Watts' hymns, was a standard pedagogical choice for moral and literacy instruction. Condition-wise, the sampler appears to be in good antique state. The pigments in the red and green threads remain remarkably stable, suggesting it was kept away from direct UV exposure for much of its history. I observe typical age-related toning of the linen ground and minor foxing. The slight tension warping is expected and does not significantly detract from the aesthetic value. In the current market, dated samplers with genealogical data (name/location) command a premium. Comparables at auction for mid-19th-century samplers in similar condition typically range from $1,000 to $2,500 depending on the rarity of the specific motifs. Note: This appraisal is based on photographic evidence only. A physical inspection is required to confirm the fiber composition (silk vs. wool) and to inspect the reverse side for original thread intensity. To fully authenticate the piece, I would recommend a blacklight test to check for modern repairs and a search of 1830 census records for 'Susanna Wire' to solidify the historical record. Use of acid-free mounting cannot be confirmed without removing the frame; improper historical mounting can impact long-term value.