Sewing kits, in soldier parlance “housewives,” were common going-away gifts from mothers, wives, sweethearts, and charitable sewing circles to departing soldiers who would have to fend for themselves in mending uniforms, resewing buttons, etc.

This one is made similarly to patented kits of the era, using a tin cylinder with a glazed fabric cover that extends in a long flap that can be rolled up around the tin and tied closed when not in use. The tin cylinder has a thin rod through the center to hold small spools of thread. An open slot gives access to the thread. Measures 9” wide x 1.5” in diameter when rolled up.

The silk lined, glazed fabric cover features a colorful patchwork interior forming one large pocket with smaller leatherette pockets for loose needles, buttons, cloth patches, and crochet needles. This was definitely a commercial product.

The condition is very good. The brown glazed cover is good with only light wear and some finish loss around edges. Interior silk lining has a lot of separation. Remainder of interior is in very nice shape. The closing “tie” is missing.

This would be a nice addition to a display of soldiers’ personal gear, even one focusing just on the ubiquitous “housewife” in its many variations, from the relatively simple to the more complex combination kits that displayed the most modern improvements that promised greater convenience and comfort for the new soldier in army camps.   [jet][ph:L]

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