![Lyceum needlework Sampler with basket of flowers, Catherine A Butcher](/sites/default/files/2023-01/Lyceum-Sampler-Butcher.jpg)
Alexandria History Museum: Needlework Samplers
In the early 19th century, it was important for young girls of every social and economic level to learn how to sew as a preparation for taking on adult responsibilities.
Page updated on January 18, 2023 at 3:19 PM
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Alexandria History Museum: Needlework Samplers
In the early 19th century, it was important for young girls of every social and economic level to learn how to sew as a preparation for taking on adult responsibilities. Girls from more well-to-do households, who had more leisure time, learned skills in fancy needlework as well. They were expected to create ornamental needlework pieces that were suitable for framing and display.
![Lyceum needlework Sampler with basket of flowers, Catherine A Butcher](/sites/default/files/2023-01/Lyceum-Sampler-Butcher.jpg)
![Needlework sampler](/sites/default/files/2023-01/Lyceum-Sampler-Walker.jpg)
![Mary Muir's sampler, in the collection of Alexandria's History Museum at The Lyceum](/sites/default/files/2021-12/Mary-Muir-Sampler.jpg)
![Sampler stitched in Alexandria, 1817](/sites/default/files/2021-11/Lyceum-GW-Sampler.jpg)