Only one item from Richmond was chosen for the Virginia Association of Museum’s “Top 10 Endangered Artifacts” program: a dress from the early 1900s made by a Black business owner.
The designer, Fannie Criss Payne, was a Black business owner and Richmond’s premier dressmaker at the turn of the 20th century. A release from the Valentine Museum states Payne overcame segregation and sexism to achieve extraordinary success.
The program, now in its ninth year, highlights underrepresented communities and untold stories from historical artifacts. This year’s theme is “Conserving Diversity.” Items include World War II recruitment photos, quilts and other more.
Each item includes a description and historical background.
Recent Comments