Created By: Anna P Forman, Aged 10 Years (1847-1933)
Artifact Type: Pictorial Embroidery
Artifact Date: 1857
Origin/Region: New Jersey, United States
Material/Medium: Wool yarn on canvas ground
Museum Database Number: OBA 1973.002.0001
Artifact Condition: Excellent
Artifact Location: Gift of Mr. M. Callear Traver to Old Barracks Association Collection
Ownership History: The Old Barracks Association. Mr. M. Callear Traver
A Berlin wool work sampler, a style which became popular in the 1820s. Originating in Berlin, Germany, it utilized local wool yarn on canvas, linen, or cotton. The wool was often dyed in bright colors, creating a beautiful contrast to the neutral ground. Berlin samplers had their design drawn on graph paper, which was then transferred onto the backing. This technique changed embroidery from how it was traditionally done; by using a drafted design, it de-skilled embroidery and allowed more people the ability to create pieces. The commercialized and attainable nature of the Berlin style allowed these samplers to grow in popularity until the 1870s.
Anna Perrine Forman was born on February 16, 1847 to merchant Runey Runyan Forman and his wife Hannah Perrine (1817-?). Anna was one of six children.
In 1868, Anna married John Stonaker Silvers (1841-1915) and had two children, J. Stanley Silvers (1880-1882) and Julia Silvers Dunham (dates unknown). Her family owned Forman Hardware, and in 1901, Anna and John took over running the business from her brothers. Anna passed away on November 16, 1933.
