Fine Needlework Sampler, Catharin Brubaker, New Holland School, Lancaster, Pennsylvania, dated 1823

worked in silk stitches on a linen ground, signed Catharin Brubaker's Performance in the twelth year of her age, New Holland School, February 1823.

Richard H. and Virginia A. Wood, Baltimore, Maryland, May 24, 1965

American Needlework Treasures: Samplers and Silk Embroideries from the Collection of Betty Ring at the Museum of American Folk Art  (p. 45, fig. 76)

Slight discoloration of linen and faded stitches; new frame.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

Catharin's wreath suggests Quaker influence , and performed or performance occurs more often on Quaker work than on other samplers (see Martha Rogers, fig. 24); it also appears on a New Holland School sampler of 1839 (Franklin and Marshall College, Lancaster, Pennsylvania ). This was a German and English common school founded in 1796 and located on the Lutheran Congregation's land. Catharin (1811 - 1895) named her parents, Abraham Brubaker (1777-1847) and Anna (1781- 1831) of New Holland; also, her Preceptoress R. Rakestraw. Catharin's married name was Ranck.

Catharin Brubaker's mother was Anna Zell.  (Additional information provided by Carol and Stephen Huber).