Handwoven Textiles of Early New England: The Legacy of a Rural People, 1640-1880

From flax field and sheep pasture through the steps necessary to prepare the material for spinning, then to the loom and the finished cloth, this is the story of a hearty people and a cottage industry that supported early rural folks with products that were sold, traded, and made for home use. Mixed with this warm, understanding narrative of one aspect of the life of the early settlers and farmers are side glances at the interesting social, economic, and political issues of the day which give flavor and timeliness to American history. Photographs, many in full color, illustrate the products of the weavers who worked at home, making items that were used by the family, offered in trade, or sold.