Elizabeth Wadsworth Longfellow mourning pin, Portland, ca. 1829

Contributed by Maine Historical Society

Description

Commissioned by Maine politician William Pitt Fessenden (1806-1869), this teardrop shaped pin was edged with pearls and black onyx, both popular choices for mourning jewelry. Under the pin’s glass center is a lock of brown hair. Engraved on the reverse are the initials “EWL” for Fessenden’s fiancé Elizabeth Wadsworth Longfellow (1808-1829) who died before the couple married. Elizabeth was the poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow’s younger sister.

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About This Item

  • Title: Elizabeth Wadsworth Longfellow mourning pin, Portland, ca. 1829
  • Creation Date: circa 1829
  • Subject Date: circa 1829
  • Location: Portland, Cumberland County, ME
  • Media: gold, pearl, onyx, hair
  • Local Code: A85-916
  • Object Type: Physical Object

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For more information about this item, contact:

Maine Historical Society
485 Congress Street, Portland, ME 04101
(207) 774-1822 x230
Website

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