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Mrs. R. Githens

Novel and Curious Invention for Cutting Ladies' Dresses

"Many eminent Dress Makers and fashionable ladies have taken lessons and are delighted wit its simplicity and accuracy"

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania: Scott, Printer, 12 Hudson's Alley, 1851. Printed handbill advertising a "Novel and Curious Invention for Cutting Ladies' Dresses" by Mrs. R. Githens, who hopes "every lady will have the curiosity to call and see how easy they can be taught to measure and cut their own dresses--in learning any old style it takes months and years; all the time required to learn this new method is from one to four hours" (recto). We have located advertisements for Mrs. Githens' dressmaking and embroidering services from as early as 1849 (29 Nov., Public Ledger), but this appears to be her first advertisement for her "DIY" lessons showing women how to cut their own dress patterns. "Mrs. R. Githens" is most likely the maiden name for Eliza R. Bell, formerly Githens (c.1824-1863), wife of Josiah Bell (c.1820-?). Measures 6" by 6", verso blank. Very good. Foxed with some edge wear, short tears, minor water staining.

Price: $125.00

Item #22001903