My ancestors immigrated to America in the late seventeenth century from Bedforshire, England, and this hope chest has been passed down in my family for generations. A hope chest is an item given to young, unmarried women to store household items like tablecloths, linens, and other materials. As an English custom, it was typically given to the first born daughter, for her to begin preparing for married life. It has come to represent our connection to family and to our ancestors, who were able to bring with them items significant cultural items. The chest is a reminder of the privilege they had coming from England to America, as their journey and ability to assimilate was far easier than many other immigrant experiences.

– Olivia Lennon

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