What Started My Collection?

                                              The first piece of Victoriana from my collection.

 I went to my first estate sale at age 15, bought a pair of crochet gloves and a beaded hand bag and I was hooked! I have never stopped collecting Victorian & Edwardian fashions and accessories.



Antique pictures of my ancestors were my inspiration for researching and later collecting 19th century history and clothing.

My Civil War grandfather Samuel J. Martin who is buried in Dayton National Cemetery in Ohio.

http://www.findagrave.com/cgi-bin/fg.cgi?page=gr&GRid=954326

Samuel & Hannah's daughter young Ella Mae Martin, circa 1860. She was about 12 years old here.

Samuel & Hannah Martin's daughters Ella Mae & Lucy Martin (seated) circa 1890. Ella Mae had a child and named her Lucy, after her beloved sister, who died at age 24. Lucy's photo is below. 

The Granddaughter of Sameul J. Martin, daughter of Ella Mae Martin, Lucy Riley on her wedding day in 1917. She lived to the ripe old age of 92.

My Grandfather Anselm J. Riley, who married Lucy, pictured on his wedding day in 1917. He was a coal miner, as was his father. 

Anselm's sister Margaret Riley, age 16 years. I own her antique bedroom set from her marriage in 1913.
I used to sleep over when I was in grade school and play dress up with her things. I guess I never grew up!

Anselm & Lucy's only child Marguerite Riley on her first birthday, September 1, 1919. She is my mother's mother, she lived to be 90 years old. 

Victoriana Lady Lisa- Bringing history to life since 2003

To book a program please contact me - Victorianaladylisa@gmail.com

 References available upon request.