Marking sampler with cross-stitched upper and lower case alphabets and numerals in red, and decorative bands and border in green. Overall good condition with even toning and some fading and a 3/8″ stain and some minor thread loss. The sampler is loosely stitched to cardboard backing with some fraying to the edges (outside of the border). It is housed in a later stained wood frame.
Signed:
Ann Preston 1811

This early needlework sampler, which in the past has been "attributed" to Kentucky (further research would be helpful), was owned by the Underwood estate of Davidson County, Tennessee, in the 1990s (the Underwoods had early histories in both Tennessee and Kentucky). Genealogical records show Ann Preston married William Lashbrooke in 1814 in Mason County, Kentucky. Lashbrooke served in the Kentucky Confederate Army and enlisted August 21, 1861 at Camp Burnett, Tennessee.

Note: Only low resolution images are currently available to AKS. Higher resolution images would be appreciated if available.