Sunday, July 19, 2015

KEEPSAKE No 4

You may remember when reading mum's book "Clock of Time" that when they landed in Albany from England the first people to speak to them on the wharf were Annie and Jim Dakin, a couple from Yorkshire who made it a habit of meeting all ships arriving from the 'old country'.

My keepsake this week is a beautiful handkerchief that Annie Dakin gave me as the 'something old' when I was married (the first time) 62 years ago yesterday (18th July, 1953).  I have no idea how old the hanky is but I know Annie had it for a long time (unused) and could have even brought it with her when she and Jim emigrated from the UK.  It could well be 100 years old.   I believe it is handmade, is Nottingham lace and it is so delicate you would only 'wear' it for show.


Although I have kept it wrapped in tissue paper is has discoloured with age.  I may try soaking it in warm water as it is still very strong and it would be great if it was cream all over again.  I keep it in my hanky drawer and by having it so close it constantly reminds me of a gracious little old lady (Annie was born in 1885) of whom we were all very fond.  She and Jim did not have any children but were very happy together; he absolutely adored her and would spoil her at every opportunity.

P.S.  It is 63 years today since Aubrey and I were engaged.  We remain friends and occasionally chat on the telephone.

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6 comments:

  1. Yamini MacLeanJuly 19, 2015 at 6:07 AM

    Hari OM
    That is astoundingly gorgeous Mimsie...do you know, I think it might even date back as far as Victorian era? Certainly pre ww1 I would say.... I would be tempted to frame such a treasure! YAM xx

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    1. MimsieJuly 21, 2015 at 8:10 PM

      When you consider Annie met the ship in about 1920 I am sure the handy dates back to the Victorian era. I will try and soak it and then wash it gently and, fingers crossed, it will look much better. xx

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  2. Elephant's ChildJuly 19, 2015 at 6:28 AM

    It is glorious. My mother made bobbin lace, and this looks like a beautiful example. So much intricate work. Yamini's idea of framing it is great.

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    1. MimsieJuly 21, 2015 at 8:11 PM

      Phil said he had an aunt that made bobbin lace. I am not clever enough to do that type of work. I think my hands are too big.
      Not sure about framing it but will definitely try and give it a gentle wash.

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  3. RiverJuly 19, 2015 at 3:10 PM

    It's beautiful! If you manage to get it cream again, get some jewellers tissue paper to wrap it in, to prevent discolouration again.

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    1. MimsieJuly 21, 2015 at 8:12 PM

      I am going to try to clean it and the idea of jeweller's tissue is a good one so thank you for that suggestion.

      Delete

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