Etui

These two recent donations to the Historical Society are excellent examples of items made to hold sewing implements such as scissors, needles, thimbles and tape measures.  Often containers like these are known as etuis.

Also known as a sewing pouch, or a pinch purse, Hannah Kirby made this of silk in 1812 while she was a student at the Nine Partners Boarding School in Millbrook (sketch, right).  She was the daughter of George and Anna Kirby and would have been around 11 years old when this pouch was made.

The walnut etui shown below is likely from the second half of the 19th century when this style was most popular. DCHS Collections. Gift of Victoria Hawkins. 2020.  

Thank you, Victoria Hawkins!