Man's Needlepoint Slippers

These red needlepoint slippers with large flowers belonged to the donor's great grandfather, David C. Moulton. David C. Moulton was from an old New England family, and he became involved in businesses in Providence, Rhode Island. Born in New Hampshire in 1830, he moved to Rhode in 1852 where he found employment as a machinist at the Atlantic Delaine Company. He worked his way up to be superintendent of engineering and construction. On April 1, 1900 Moulton retired after working forty-six years.

These slippers - for wearing at home - were believed to have been made by a family member in the 1870s or 1880s. The slippers have a red ground with large greyish lily flowers with yellow stamens and pistils. There are also leaves in different shades of green. The slippers measure about 10 ½ inches long with a half inch wooden heel. The slippers have a square toe measuring 2 inches.

Ladies made needlepoint or Berlin work slippers for their gentleman friends and relations using patterns published in magazines such as Godey's Lady's Book.

Needlepoint slippers were very popular in the 1860-1890 period. David C. Moulton had two pairs of needlepoint slippers donated to the Historic Textile & Costume Collection.

References
Rexford, Nancy. Women's Shoes in America, 1795-1930. Kent (Ohio): Kent State University Press, 2000.