This woven wicker sewing basket was made around 1900 to be kept on the floor near a seamstress. It is 28 inches high. Although rare, it sold for only 5 at a Jackson’s auction in Cedar Falls, Iowa.

Women’s work in past centuries included cooking, cleaning and sewing. Before the 19th century, women had to shear sheep or cut flax and spin or weave fabric. Then they were expected to know how to ...