Chinese Silk Taffeta and Linen Dress. Made in New England. Brown striped silk taffeta dress made for the wedding of Sylvesta Elizabeth Clark, who married John Best, November 25, 1858 in Charlestown, Massachusetts. Together with petticoat and hoops. By repute, the silk woven in China, exported to Massachusetts. Circa 1858. {Approximate dimensions: _x000B_Bust 27" Diameter, Waist 23" Diameter, Skirt length 41 1/2" L. _x000B_Length from nape of neck to hem 58" L.}._x000B_ Provenance: Made for Sylvesta Elizabeth Clark Besh, by descent, then gifted to the MHAA before 1981. Exhibited: Pacific House, 1993, Adobe Tour, 1995, San Louis Obispo State Building, 1995. Condition: The overall condition of the dress is very good, with seam lines where the bodice was let out over time. Minor holes to fabric lining. Replaced collar. Hoops: one wire loose. Petticoat and collar with minor staining. The silk in the dress is lively, not stiff, and in very good condition. From the notes made at the time of donation to the MHAA, the "fabric was brought from China by the father of the bride, who was a sea captain in the China Trade." _x000B__x000B_In the Charlestown records, Middlesex County, Sylvesta Elizabeth Clark (1835-1915). She was born in Harwich, Barnstable, Massachusetts,and died Stoneham, Middlesex, Massachusetts. Her father was Elbridge G. Clark and mother Elizabeth (Betsy) Walker. _x000B__x000B_John Best (1836 - 1923.). At the time of their wedding, John Best was listed as a shoemaker in Boston. In 1873, the same year of their wedding, the city of Boston, annexed part of Charlestown, which was right along the Charles River. James Best and Sarah Graham were the parents of John Best. _x000B_ _x000B_From notes at time of donation, the dress was designed from an enclosed Godey print (not present with the dress any longer). The dress and hoops are original, the collar, sleeves and petticoats were added later.