The frock has a bustle front opening, with 12 buttons, hooks and sewn eyes. The matching jacket bodice is front opening with 3 bows and fringed hem.
The dress was owned by Zillah Kellett, who was born on 26/2/1854, and was probably worn between the age of 18-20. Zillah married Thomas Chapman, who she met on the boat to Australia. They lived at Lisarow, south of Gosford, and her eldest son Joshua Chapman came to Coffs Harbour to live.
DONATED by Margaret Searle, a grand-daughter of Zillah Kellet.
Description
Chocolate brown frock, satin-like fabric, lined with back bustle, front opening (metal hooks and sewn eyes), twelve pearl buttons (decorative only and not used to close garment). Ruched around neckline, edged with chocolate brown lace at join. Darts front and back to give a very fitted bodice. Has long narrow sleeves with gathered fabric cuff and lace skirt flared from upper hip line to lower edge with three gathered wide frills edged in lace. One 9" deep, overlapping 4" then 6". Lower edge of skirt very fine pleats 2.5" deep. Brown fabric ties on inside upper and below bustle area on centre back. Silk bow at centre back waist.
Dress has matching jacket (Accession Number 10.114).
