In the mid-1800s, silks in the United States were largely imported. This mustard gold silk damask (patterned) dress includes an elongated floral, leaf and twig motif. The fabric, likely Chinese, is quite distinct from imported European designs of the time. It is a reminder that, probably thanks to local sea captains, some Maine ladies received lengths of Chinese silks made for the Western market.

Dating from the mid-1850s, the dress shows evidence of alteration. The complex tiered ruffles on the sloping shoulders and opening of the bodice were added at a later date.