Image Not Available

Cradle

Object number96.232.1

Datec.1820

Possible OriginSchellsburg, PA

MediumWood; Metal

Credit LineGift of Tina J. Vital in memory of Andrew and Dorothy Clark Vital.

DescriptionChild's rocking cradle.Dimensions15.5 x 24 x 38.4999 in. (39.4 x 61 x 97.8 cm)
Historical NotesAccording to the donor, this cradle was used in her family by her great-grandmother. Her ancestors were early residents of Schellsburg, Pa., according to the donor in the 1790s. It was used (as infant) and inherited by Jessie S. Clark. Dorthy Clark Vital purchased it at Jessie's auction.Label TextCradles comforted infants with gentle rocking motions and secured them within a confined space. Because of their durability and the limited use for each child, families frequently inherited cradles from successive generations. This cradle from the early 19th century may have been used in Shellsburg, Pennsylvania, where it descended through the donor’s family.

Subjects