Cloak

Description

Silver gray wool flannel cloak, machine sewn. Typical Shaker cloak style: pleated hood, shoulder cape, silk ties, a single hook and eye closure at neck. Bears label of E. J. Neale & Co.

Notes

The donor reported that she purchased the cloak from Emma Neale, who told her that the cloak was made for Mrs. Grover Cleveland to wear to President Cleveland's inauguration, and when the cloak was finished, it was found to have a small spot on the front (which is still there), so they made her another one. However, other Shaker communities including Union Village, OH, had similar traditions regarding Mrs. Cleveland's cloak. To learn more about Sister Emma's cloak workshop, read this blog post: https://www.shakermuseum.us/cloak-cutting-counter/