Mary Gruben's sewing collection
Mary Gruben (1882-1978) was an Inuvialuk from the Mackenzie Delta. She lived at Kittigaryuit, Kangianiq, and Tuktoyaktuk. When Mary's husband, John Gruben, died in 1926 she was left with a young family. With her son Charlie, Mary supported and raised her children and several grandchildren. Her sewing activities kept her family warmly clothed, and contributed to the family's income. In the fall months and before Christmas, Mary spent long hours sewing by lantern and by candlelight.
Mary's sewing collection contains caribou skin parkas and boots, parka covers, pattern pieces, sewing "in progress" and other interesting items. The collection is from the later years of Mary's life, in the 1950-1970s.