Here we have a very rare sampler from the 1920s commemorating a Boy Scouts organization and featuring a black youth shooting a basketball. I have searched high and low and haven't found anything like it, especially showing someone playing hoops 100 years ago. I love the mix of the letters, numbers, candlestick, birdhouse, chair, as well as the cat and dog. There are plenty of clues in this intricate work as well remaining mysteries. I was told this piece was found in southern Illinois. There is a
multifamily unit In Jacksonville Illinois matching the address on the sampler. The building was built in 1900. It's a possible match but not an official confirmation.
Illinois does have a history of being at the forefront of establishing Boy Scout troupes focusing on African Americans. You can find more info at this
link:
The rare framed needlework sampler measures 15 1/4" tall by 16" wide. There are occasional losses in the thread throughout the antique sampler. The professional framing is solid. Please see all pics as they are part of the description.
I ship FedEx to street addresses in the continental USA only (no PO Boxes). Free shipping on the amazing and historical sampler.
A straight up unicorn. Such an honor to find it.
