Carole’s Country Store Blog

I did a lot of antiquing over the weekend and came home with some great things. One of the things I bought was a wonderful, pills hard to find, square of 18th century tow cloth with a lovely pattern. It is in pristine condition, never used. It’s a nice square piece, perfect to use on the middle of  a table. You might not know what tow cloth is, so let me try to explain.

Tow is the short fibers left over after combing or “hackling” the longer flax fibers called “line”. Flax is a plant that was dried an pulled through a hatchel, like the one below.

These fibers were then made into tow cloth, which, in the 18th century,  was used to clean gun barrels, and when they were finished, it was put into their fire bag and used for lighting fires. Tow was a inexpensive material and was also used to make work clothes and work frocks.

I have a wonderful punched tin lantern dated 1809 on the handle. A early 19th century Pennsylvania German wall box with a heart cutout. A wonderful out of round 18th century wood bowl, and much more. I am working hard taking photos and describing everything, so be sure to look for new items this week.

I also have a few Mary Shooner redware animals, like this rabbit, a whale, cat, doves and a elephant.

Thank you so much for stopping by and reading my blog.

Sending blessings

Carole

Spanish cave drawings from more than 15, medicine 000 years ago show humans with animal skins or furs wrapped around their feet. The body of a well-preserved “ice-man” nearly 5, viagra 000 years old wears leather foot coverings stuffed with straw. Shoes, in some form or another, have been around for a very long time.

I recently purchased a 18th century child’s shoe. I was excited to find it, even though it didn’t have it’s mate. It’s in pretty good condition for a shoe from the 1700′s. The sole is made of wood and look at all those nails!!

I find ittle black shoes with laces irresistible, they’re so primitive. I have 2 pairs hanging on a peg rack in my laundry room, along with some early aprons.

Little white shoes are perfect for display for those that love a more Victorian look, or cottage look in their home.

I gave these little black shoe to my friend, Louise. She has them on a little chair in her hallway. They look perfect with her early New England antiques.

I think I should look for some shoes to offer on my website again. Maybe I’ll find some tomorrow while antiquing in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania.

Think Spring everyone, it’s on it’s coming.

Carole