The sampler features five rows of alphabets of graduating size, divided by geometric borders in at least four varying kinds of stitches, and the verse is flanked by pictorials of two roses, a bird on a tree, two bluebirds, a redbird, and a basket of flowers. All the sampler elements are enclosed in a cross stitched X-form border. There is even fading and toning with no apparent losses. The sampler is housed in an old, possibly original, stained wood frame.

Verse:
Through an eterney to thee
a joyful song in verse
for a eternity is too short
to utter all thy praise

Signature:
Sarah Shekels work finished August 20th 1824 in the 12th
Year of her age

Sarah Sheckels' parents, Levi Sheckels and Sarah Hardwick, were married in Greenup County, KY in 1812. Their only child (Sarah Sheckels) was born in 1812 in Indiana, but by 1820 the family is listed as living in Elizaville, Kentucky (in Fleming County, near Maysville). She married Bennett Cox on Nov. 26, 1834 in Lawrence County, Kentucky, where she lived the rest of her life. Sarah gave birth to four sons and two daughters before her untimely death in 1847 at the age of 34.

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