To find the best match for curtains for windows in the West Hall of the Hyland House Museum, Curator Pam Besse researched 17th and 18th century fabrics and window treatments. From historic research, it is reasonable to assume that Ebenezer Parmelee had the means to have imported wool from England for his draperies and bed hangings. After all, the colonists depended on England for fine
textiles since none were being produced here. Our curator’s search led to John Buscemi of Classic Revivals, Inc, of Boston.
In collaboration with John Miners of East Anglia, England and Ian Dale of Angus Weavers of Scotland, work began. Ian Dale, a seventh generation weaver, used the same looms and the same principles as weavers did in the 17th century. And the yarn was spun to the same count and twist from a fleece of the breed of sheep – Suffolk – available at that time. A bolt of yellow and red Boxford damask wool was created. The pattern was copied from an English textile dated circa 1680 – 1700 from Britain’s Victoria and Albert Museum. Research has shown that the Sprig pattern has enlarged slightly over time.
As can be seen in the pictures below, these beautiful curtains now grace the windows in the West Hall – with enough left for a chair cushion!
The Hyland House Museum 