Scottish Rite Masonic Museum & Library

Coverlet with Masonic Symbols
1828
Maker not marked
USA
Wool
100-1/2"h x 77-1/4"w
Gift of Mrs. Robert Ehrich in memory of Eugene J. Hoskin, Henry Perkins Lodge #611, Akron, Ohio
79.1

Blue and white jacquard coverlet; central design of flowers and vines; border design of eagle, square and compasses, columns, building, stars; outer border pattern reads "Caroline Rosman;" corners read "Agricul / ture & Man / ufactures. are the found / ation of our inde / pendence / July 4, 1828."

From the 1820s through the 1840s, many women prized boldly decorated coverlets with sophisticated designs like this one. Professional weavers, not homemakers, made them. Here, along with an eagle, stars, animals, and flowers, are the patriotic message and date: “Agriculture & Manufactures are the foundation of our independence. July 4 1828.” The owner’s name, Caroline Rosman, is woven into the edge, telling us she was pleased to be associated with the message and symbols on this fashionable coverlet.