Funeral Wreath

This is an American embroidered memorial wreath presented to Louisa Catherine Adams upon the death of her father in law, President John Adams. Red, white, and blue silk embroidered flowers create a wreath of color on a black silk background, housed in a gilded wood shadow box frame.

The lettering in the center of the wreath reads, "Presented to Mrs. Adams, Lady of the President of the United States of America by the Pupils of the Seminary for Female Education at Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, 1826/A.B."

The wreath is significant to the “Old House,” home of the Adams Presidents, on many levels, and its history resonates throughout all generations associated with the house. The piece itself is an extraordinary example of 19th century American art. It honors the contributions of Adams women. It was presented to the First Lady during John Quincy Adams’ Presidency, signifying the father-son presidential connection. As a member of the Continental Congress, John Adams visited the Seminary for Female Education and witnessed for himself their fine embroidery skills. John wrote to his daughter about his visit to the school and noted it was a “remarkable Institution for the education of young ladies…” Brilliantly, the symbolic colors of the wreath highlight the date, July 4, 1826 when John Adams died.