Description:

Norfolk Girls did more than just the stepped-diamond patterns! There are now known to be several of these beautiful darning samplers and this one is a prime specimen. Hannah started with a delicate free-stitched nosegay, which she then surrounded with a floral wreath. The darning patterns are placed between these floral motifs. Note the pencil marks still visible near the yellow and gold darning, where Hannah's original design and actual stitching did not quite match up in the end.

Size (W x H): 16 3/4 x 19 3/4 inches

Stitches: Chain, outline, satin, cross-over-one, numerous darning stitches

Media: Silk on wool

Genealogy:

We have found four equally viable alternatives, a testament to the commonness of the surname Palmer:

• Hannah Whitaker Palmer was christened 8 May 1803 at St. Paul's Norwich, Norfolk, the daughter of Sarah Palmer.
• Hannah Pottle Palmer was christened 18 November 1801 in Kenninghall, Norfolk, the daughter of James Palmer.  
• Thomas Palmer and Sarah Scarlett of Heigham, Norfolk, christened their daughter Hannah 7 January 1801.  
• Thomas Palmer and his wife Happy of Hempnall, Norfolk, christened their daughter Hannah 11 October 1801.  

Verse:

Hannah Palmer
1815