In 1908 my great- great grandma, Mary Smith Doran, made this baptismal dress for her daughter’s baptism. Later, each of Mary’s nine children went on to wear this dress during their baptisms. Both the boys and girls in my family wore this same dress. Now, 114 years later, this dress is frail, worn, and tattered, but still preserved. On my mom’s side of the family, over 50 people have worn this dress for their baptisms, including my grandma, mom, aunt, uncle, and sister. Even recently it was worn by one of my relatives in the last few years. I hope this tradition continues, as it represents my faith, and the welcomingof family into the church. Also, it represents the importance of family and tradition in my life, as we all have participated in this practice, even now, 114 years later. It makes me feel connected to the ancestors and family I have never met, making us all a part of this rich family tradition. It is something I am proud to be a part of; this dress represents the rich history of my family and their creativity, loyalty, faith and dedication.

– GC

Relationship:  Great-grandchild of im/migrant or more Great-grandchild of im/migrant or more