Millinery and Old Lace: Miss Jane Clarke of Regent Street

Abstract

Jane Clarke (c. 1794–1859) of Regent Street, London, was well-known as a lace merchant and milliner at prestigious addresses and as an exhibitor at major exhibitions, but her means of livelihood has became a cultural interest which has survived the woman herself. After summarising what is known about Jane Clarke’s family, this biographical article describes the context and the development of her London business and its expansion into Lancashire. It then focuses on Clarke herself — her awards and honours, her lace and antiques collections and her new suburban home. Comparisons are made between Clarke and other London merchants. Jane Clarke’s achievements are of interest to historians considering the careers of Madame Elise, court dressmaker, and Anthony Blackborne, lace merchant, each of whom took over a part of her business in 1859.