If you can remember Mr. Peabody, Sherman, and the Wayback Machine, you probably remember the women's movement of the 1960s and 70s.
One thing I remember reading was a great essay entitled "I Want A Wife," by Judy Brady; it appeared in Ms. Magazine and you can read it here. In many ways it is still relevant since studies indicate that women still do most of the childcare and housework even when she and her spouse both work fulltime.
But that's not what I'm writing about today. I'm writing about a sewing kit that originated in the 18th century (probably in England). It was used by both men and women and is often referred to as a hussif, huswif, or a housewife. I've even heard it referred to as a hussy. 😆
When Beth and I did our Civil War program, we talked about the hussif and how soldiers used them to mend, darn, etc. while in the field. Beth even found instructions from during the war and made an example for our programs. This was a common use of the hussif, made by family members for soldiers in the field.
Civil War soldier sewing
You can see a lot of these antique hussifs online and a great essay on them with photos is here. It was a small rolled up kit that included things like needles, thread, scissors and other sewing essentials.
But women used hussifs too. Those are the most decorative and I've found examples from both the UK and North America that are very pretty. Back when Beth and I were looking at them, it seemed like only historical reenactors were interested in making them. Then the pandemic hit and as more people hand sewed, there was a renewed interest in them.
The modern versions are often pretty and I encourage you to browse the internet for them. The makers now incorporate slow stitching, embroidery, and all kinds of doo-dads like lace and rick-rack to make pretty sewing kits. A great article for you to peruse is here. Have you or would you make one?
Flower Friday is coming up and if you would like to submit a photo, please email me at allentownquilter@gmail.com
Have a great day!
