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Chatelaine

Also know as "ladies' companions," chatelaines were devices worn on a woman's waist to carry useful tools for household tasks. These practical dress clips with chains were originally worn by the woman of the house to aid in her duties; however, chatelaines were soon adopted by younger women as a decorative accessory to showcase charms as a visual representation of status. 
This chatelaine hosts a thimble, a pair of scissors, a pin cushion, and two keys.
It is believed that this belonged to Mary "Marak" Inkster. 
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​c. 1868

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Hat pin vase and pins

Hat pins were used to hold veils and hats in place on a lady's head. They were often ornamental as well as practical, with a wide range of designs and materials. These long, sharp accessories were also occasionally used for more sinister purposes, as they made a handy weapon.  
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Hat Pin Vase
c. unknown
Assorted Hat Pins
c. unknown

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Sterling silver dressing tools

This set features two tools to help a lady get ready for the day.
​The curling tongs would have been heated over a fire, and curled hair in a similar fashion to how a modern curling iron would today.
As clothing and boots often had long rows of buttons, a button hook like this one helped get them all fastened. 
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Curling tongs and button hook. 
​c. unknown

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Seven Oaks House's original house key

This key was used on the locks of the house when it was originally built in the 1800s.
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Keys​
c. 1850s

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Mock tortoise hair comb

This comb would have been used as a decorative accessory in  ladies' hairstyles. Hair accessories like this one were often made of celluloid, a synthetic material that mimicked the appearance of luxury animal products such as ivory and tortoiseshell, without such an extravagant price tag.
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​c. unknown

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Fan

This cream-coloured chiffon fan is embellished with delicate images of birds, dragonflies, and flowers. The spines are made of French ivory. 
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​c. before 1876

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Black jet earring and brooch

This accessory set belonged to Mary Inkster. The matching earrings and brooch are made from carved black jet gemstones set on wooden backings.  
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​c. prior to 1890

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Purple dress

This is a reproduction of a dress that belonged to the Inkster family. The purple dress with a black beaded trim would have been worn with a hoop skirt and petticoat. 
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​c. unknown 

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