A children's dress of calico, in an amazing color of purple, from the 1850's (or earlier) to 1860's Civil War era. The calico fabric is a wonderful small scale print, white background with the motifs in purple  The little dress is completely hand stitched featuring a rather square drawstring neck line and a double ruffled sleeve treatment. 

One ruffle in the calico fabric with the under ruffle in a fine muslin. Inset waistband with cording at the seam edges. The skirt is attached with gauge cartridge pleats. Waistband is lined in muslin. No other lining. 

Measurements:  23-1/2" long from shoulder to hem.  8" across from shoulder to shoulder.  Chest is 15" around.  Waist is 14" around. 

Condition:  Four small holes in the calico ruffle on the top of one of the sleeves. The drawsting running through the neck line on the front has broken (the back drawstring is intact and can be drawn).  String on the front would need to be replaced or perhaps just gathered to fit.  A couple small spots of oxidation which is not uncommon.  

A wonderful period dress especially in purple, as most colors that were purple are fugitive.   

Suitable for dressing a large doll, bear or equally perfect for display or just to admire.