Frances Emilene McNeely Marking Sampler

I never met my Great Grandma but think I would have been fascinated to hear her talk about her life's story and the times in which she lived. Frances Emilene McNeely was born in 1862 in a little rural community of southwest Missouri. She grew up during our country's Civil War and the Reconstruction years that followed...how exciting and sometimes terrifying those times must have been for a little child to experience.

I created my marking sampler in her memory using antique alphabet charts from the 19th century. She was an expert needlewoman so I like to imagine that she began her sewing skills working on a sampler something like this one.

I unfortunately don't have a photo of my Great Grandma but am lucky to own an old salt cellar that belonged to her. I keep it filled with cinnamon sticks instead of salt but I don't think she'd mind! I also have her English ironstone pitcher which is a real beauty. These are treasured items in my home and are of course very special to me.

I hope you are lucky enough to be stitching on something that makes you smile and is close to your heart!!!

Happy stitching!
Sandy