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 satin jacket bodice / sleeveless vest, front opening (ten metal hooks and sewn eyes), shaped V at either side front and back; edged with silk fringing on hem. Small neckline extended trim decorated with ribbon; front has three false bows and very small pocket at waistline on front left. Shaped pieces are lines. Has princess shaped seams on back of vest. Machine made but with some hand stitching.
Jacket has matching dress (Accession Number 10.115).
