Images(6)

Runner, Furniture

Object number2018.21.1

Made by Laura McConway Scoville (1869 - 1963)

Datec. 1880

MediumSilk; Velvet; Fabric

Credit LineGift of Christopher Weatherly

DescriptionRectangular patchwork bed runner comprised of twelve squares arranged in two rows of six squares. Each square is unique in its piecing and fabric selection; fabrics range from solid colors to patterned fabrics including floral, striped, plaid, shape, and polka dot patterns; fabrics are in a multitude of colors. One square features a large printed fabric with blue-gray bust portrait of a woman with poetry quote below. Columns are divided by navy blue fabric strips. Reverse is faced with patterned floral fabric with green background and pink flowers with green leaves; same fabric borders front patchworked area.DimensionsLength x Width x Depth: 75.75 x 23.5 x 0.125 in. (192.4 x 59.7 x 0.3 cm)
InscriptionsOne quilt square has blue-gray text " "Her Eyes are Homes of Silent Prayer." / Tennyson".
Historical NotesPatchwork bed runner made c. 1880 by donor Christopher Weatherly's great grandmother Laura McConway Scoville (1869-1963). Scoville was born in Pittsburgh in 1869, the eldest child of William McConway, a steel manufacturer and founder of McConway & Torley Company. A friend of Andrew Carnegie, he is said to have received the first honorary degree given out by Carnegie Technical School. The runner is made from silk ribbons, some pieces identified by Scoville like the blue and white striped sash that belonged to her sister Anne McConway when she was 2-years-old. The red and white stripe fabric was from a gown that her mother (Margaret (Lytle) McConway is wearing in a daguerreotype. She had attached another note that stated that all the silk in the patches were from family clothing. Scoville attended Smith College, graduating in 1892.

Related person William McConway

Related institution McConway and Torley Company

Related person Andrew Carnegie (1835 - 1919)

Related person Anne McConway

Related person Margaret Lytle McConway

Related institution Smith College

Related person Alfred Tennyson (British, 1809 - 1892)

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