We received the following email:-
Hi there,
I came across your email address while researching this needlework picture. It was made by a resident of Long Whatton and given to a friend (possibly also a resident). I thought your society might find this example of needlework interesting. I purchased it this summer in England at an antique fair. Anyway, I hope this is helpful.
Best,
Kevin Kleinbardt
414 East 71st Street
New York, NY 10021, USA
Phone: 212-249-6612
E-Mail: ythantiques@yahoo.com
The Proposal
19th Century English Folk Art Needlework Picture
England 1897
Charming English 19th Century folk art needlework picture of a Georgian townhouse made by Jane Peat of Longwhatton, Leicestershire worked in various colors in wool. Inscription handwritten (now somewhat illegible but transcribed in type sometime later)
"1897 Jubilee Year Longwhatton
This here was erected (executed?) by Jane Peat in the parish of Longwhatton in the county of Leicester June (?) the 24th. age 74.
My dear friend, except this Little Gift of mine for you to look upon perhaps this will call me to your mind when I am dead and gone
yours
Most Humbly Jane Peat
Presented to Mrs. Edward Townley with best wishes."
Height: 24.5 , Width: 21
Price: contact dealer
End of email
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A search reveals that Jane Peat, aged 26, was living in the village in 1851. She was married to John Peat, aged 30, an agricultural labourer. The last entry is the burial record from the parish church of All Saints, dated 20/06/1913, aged 90 years.
In the 1901 Census, Jane Peat was living in the Square.
In the 1891 Census Jane E C Marshall, who later married Charles Edward Townley was living at the next house up from the Square.
It is therefore likely that this is the house in the picture. In the 1901 census the Townleys were living in Osgathorpe. It makes sense that the picture given as a present, would remind Jane Townley of her previous home in Long Whatton.
