Her greatest legacy - lives made better because she had touched them - Mrs Lincoln's Dressmaker April 2021

“Her greatest legacy could not be measured in garments or in words, but in the wisdom she had imparted, in the lives made better because she had touched them.”

― Jennifer Chiaverini, Mrs. Lincoln's Dressmaker 

Our book club was held Thursday, April 22, 2021 at Sandy's home.  Ann, Heather, Lilian, Carolyn, Brittany, Sheryl, KD, Suzanne and Sandy were there.  We had a wonderful discussion about Mrs. Lincoln's Dressmaker,  by Jennifer Chiaverini. We all learned so much from the book, which is historical fiction, but much of it is true.  Elizabeth Keckley, was a slave in Virginia and an accomplished seamstress.  She had many patrons and actually provided the income for the Burwell family. when they fell upon difficult financial circumstances.  

Elizabeth Keckley

She eventually is able to purchase her freedom, with the assistance of some of her patrons and she and her son move to Washington D.C., where she establishes a successful millinery shop and employs others.  She fashions and sews dresses for the Washington elite society.  

Some of Elizabeth Keckley's creations

When Mary Todd Lincoln becomes the First Lady, Elizabeth begins to sew for Mary Todd and becomes more than Mrs. Lincoln's modiste, she becomes her friend and confidant.  

Even though the book seemed more like reading history, rather than a novel,it was different  from other Chiaverini's books that I have read, it was still fascinating to learn about the remarkable woman, and her life, as well as learning more about President and Mrs Lincoln and their familiy life in the White house. It was  a wonderful book to read. 

Next month, we will be reading Dani Shapiro's book, Inheritance: A Memoir of Genealogy, Paternity, and Love.  We will meet on Thursday, May 20 because of upcoming graduations. 

“It is good to find comfort in memories,” Mr. Fry said gently.”

― Jennifer Chiaverini, Mrs. Lincoln's Dressmaker

“The sublimity of witnessing the ruler of a mighty nation turning to Holy Scripture for comfort and courage, and finding both in his darkest hour, brought tears to her eyes, and she was obliged to quickly compose herself before returning to Mrs. Lincoln’s side.”

― Jennifer Chiaverini, Mrs. Lincoln's Dressmaker