This is a very rare piece of American folk art. It was made in the 1820s in Pennsylvania. The needlework sampler displays a wonderful Federal Eagle gripping the arrows & olive branch. The head of the eagle is facing the arrows, which means it was probably made during a time of war or conflict. The top border of the sampler has floral decoration. There are 2 Willow trees in the bottom corners. The piece is signed: Lanah Baum Hummelstown. Lanah Baum’s full name is Magdelea Baum (b. June 16, 1810 – d. November 19, 1884). A rare feature, her instructioness is also listed as N. Phinney. The sampler was made to honor her grandparents, one of which is the founder of Hummelstown, Pennsylvania. Lenah’s parents were David Hummel (1761 – 1793) and Mary Toot (1764 – 1858). An interesting feature is that Daniel Baum’s parents were unknown on the genealogical site, but this sampler proves that his father was Michael Baum. The sampler reads: “In memory of my beloved grandfathers Michael Baum was born July 1749 and departed this life Nov 17th 1795 aged 46 years. The Lord gave and the Lord hat taken away and praised be his holy name. Also David Hummel who was born Jan 9th 1761 and departed this life Oct 3d 1793 aged 32 ys. The great creature wise and true has an undoubted right to reign he made and lent them unto you till he should call for them again. He has a right to all his own o praise him for his blessed loan.” The entire piece measures 15 x 15 inches. The sampler has some condition issues. It was sewn on a very fine homespun linen backing. There are a number of areas lacking the original material. The piece has browning, fading, and staining, but is now framed in acid-free matted background that helps to hide the areas of loss to the sampler. The frame is also professionally done with museum quality UV protected glass.