APRIL 14 ISSUE ANSWERS (photo to right): Known as a chatelaine, from the French “chateau.” This accessory was worn at the waist, hanging from a belt, by the head seamstress of a large estate. The small mesh purse held a thimble, the long slender one held needles and pins, the sides of one is fabric to be used as a pincushion and a notepad was included to write down the measurements of the article to be sewn. There were other styles of chatelaines. One was used during the “mourning period.” It held a small vial used to hold the tears of the mourning family member. Chatelaines most likely originated for holding the numerous keys needed for a large estate or castle. Spices, sugar, tea and other valuables were kept locked to prevent pilferage by the staff. The head housekeeper kept the keys and a regular accounting of the supplies was held by the owner of the estate. Gloria Billo, RHS Staff