Name/Title
CapeEntry/Object ID
1987.20.1Description
Elbow-length child's cape. It features a high or close neckline. The exterior of the cape is crafted from rows of milkweed fibers, while the lining is made of glazed cotton. A lace decoration is added to the collar. Additionally, the cape includes two long silk ribbons located at the center front neckline.Context
Made by Julia Wells of Montpelier, Vermont, for her niece, Lauretta Riker, of New York City, New York.Acquisition
Accession
1987.20Source or Donor
Gutherz, Laura WinterAcquisition Method
GiftCredit Line
Gift of the Family of Lauretta Riker WinterMade/Created
Artist
Wells, Julia Arabelle Demeritt (b. 1847)Date made
1880 - 1885Place
City
MontpelierCounty
Washington CountyState/Province
VermontCountry
United States of AmericaContinent
North AmericaLexicon
Nomenclature 4.0
Nomenclature Primary Object Term
CapeNomenclature Sub-Class
OuterwearNomenclature Class
ClothingNomenclature Category
Category 03: Personal ObjectsDimensions
Dimension Description
OverallHeight
37 inWidth
17 inMaterial
Milkweed, Cotton, SilkRelationships
Related Person or Organization
Person or Organization
Winter, Lauretta Riker (1872-1940)Related Places
Place
City
New York CityState/Province
New YorkCountry
United States of AmericaContinent
North AmericaInterpretative Labels
Label
Julia Wells made this unusual cape for her niece, Lauretta Riker. Julia was living in Montpelier at the time and Lauretta was in New York City. Lauretta was born in 1872 so we assume it was given to her when she was an older child. It obviously was treasured by Lauretta and her descendents since the fragile cape was carefully cared for. More importantly the story was cherished and passed on to children and grandchildren. They in turn presented it to the Vermont Historical Society to share with our visitors.