c1885 Admiral Sir James Somerville

A heavy white cotton broidery anglaise child’s dress with Peter Pan collar, concealed buttons and peplum over a cotton underskirt also trimmed in broidery anglaise.

Dresses were standard for all small children, both girls and boys. However, a boy would move into short trousers and vests or jackets around the age of six and seven in a process called breeching.

Born in 1882, son of Arthur Somerville and Ellen Sharland of Tasmania, James joined the Navy in 1897.  James Somerville had a distinguished Naval career, joining as a cadet in 1897; he retired in 1945 as Admiral of the Fleet.  He was known for his quick mind and lively sense of humour, and was called the best kind of fighting admiral.