18th Century Bed Furniture

In the 18th century bed furniture refers to cloth objects such as the bolster, bolster case, pillow, pillowcase or pillow beer, sheet, blanket, rug, quilt, coverlet and counterpane.  The bed, bolster and pillow were filled with feathers, chaff or flock and sewn shut at each end.  

Most sheets were either fine or coarse, but could also be tow or twilled.  Fabric was normally bought at a store and made into sheets by someone in the household.  Sheets were center seamed and hemmed at both ends.

Bed Case

Coarse Linen

82” length x 51 “ wide

3 Panels – 2 panels  - 33” wide with 3^rd panel 39 1/2” wide

All 3 panels 82” length

Sewn closed on one end and sewn halfway closed on the other end. The case could be removed, washed and then stuffed with the tick.  The weave is not twill or tight enough to hold feathers. The two examples from Colonial Williamsburg below held straw so it is possible that this one did also. Useable. There are several place where the weave is lose. The photos show the case folded in half.  Bought from a Pennsylvania Antique Textile Dealer. 

American (Likely Pennsylvania) Plain Weave/Tabby Linen mattress Tick - Once Straw Filled

Width 54 1/2" Length with Selvage 27 1/4"

c. 1750-1830

Colonial Williamsburg

American (Likely Pennsylvania) Plain Weave/Tabby Linen mattress Tick - Once Straw Filled

Width 54 1/2" Length with Selvage 27 1/4"

c. 1750-1830

Colonial Williamsburg

18th CenturyCoarse Linen Sheet

83” length x 77” wide

2 panels – 38 1/2” wide each

M embroidered in white
Natural with Age Spots

Age spots, but other wise in good condition for age.  Photos shows sheet folded in quarters. Bought from a Pennsylvania Antique Textile Dealer. 

18th Century Fine Linen Sheet

85” length x 67” wide

2 panels – 33 1/2” wide each
Bleached White, Age Spots

Very fine stitching and small hem. There are repairs on the sheet and some worn spots. Bought from a Pennsylvania Antique Textile Dealer. Useable. 

This is a nice photo showing the comparison of the different textures of homespun fabric.

Copy and photos by Jan Riser.