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Gown, Baptismal

Object number93.135.1

Date1912

MediumCotton, lace

Credit LineGift of Ethel M. Leonard

DescriptionChristening dress. Short sleeves. White cottton with white lace inserts in upper bodice, small lace collar. Lace inserts around hem, lawn ruffle with lace edging. Two button closure in back.Dimensions30.9999 in. (78.7 cm)
Historical NotesThis baptismal gown was worn by Ethel M. Leonard in 1912 and again by her brother, Regis J. Leonard, in 1913. The Leonard family used this dress when christening their children, Ethel and Regis. The Leonards were part of the wave of Irish immigrants who came to America in the pre- World War I period. They arrived in Pittsburgh in 1905 from County Galway and County Clare, met, and married at St. Paul's Cathedral in 1909. Later, the family settled in Lawrenceville and Mr. Leonard worked for the B & O Railroad. Prior to marrying, his wife worked as a maid and nanny for a Shadyside family. The story of this family typifies the Irish immigrant experience to Pittsburgh during this period.Label TextThe Leonard family used this dress when christening their children, Ethel and Regis. The Leonards were part of the wave of Irish immigrants who came to America in the pre- World War I period. They arrived in Pittsburgh in 1905 from County Galway and County Clare, met, and married at St. Paul’s Cathedral in 1909. Later, the family settled in Lawrenceville and Mr. Leonard worked for the B & O Railroad. Prior to marrying, his wife worked as a maid and nanny for a Shadyside family. The story of this family typifies the Irish immigrant experience to Pittsburgh during this period.

Related person Ethel M. Leonard

Related person Regis J. Leonard

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