This is my Great Grandmother and Great Grandfather. He immigrated to Wisconsin from Germany in the 1860s. He was much older than she was, like 35 years older!
As soon as he arrived and before he married, he got right to work homesteading and built this house in Oneida County, Wisconsin.
He raised sheep and his knitting won ribbons at the county fair!
And here is an example of his handwork. Long John’s! My cousin’s wife gifted these to me.
His mending is fantastic too.
The bag also contained this partially knit sock.
Curiously, it has a number 5 embroidered on in pink thread.
These spats were also included.
I’ve heard stories about this for years! It is so fun to finally see them. There are two sweater tops. The bottoms have gone missing, perhaps worn out? They were surely useful in Northern Wisconsin winters.
Have a great day!
KatyQuilts 
That would be crazy! So interesting. 😊
What a fun post! My ancestors came over from Germany about the same time and settled in Wisconsin as well! (Before moving to KS). Would be crazy if they’d known each other, maybe even traveled on the same ship?!
What a fun post! Now your knitting has a history to it – it’s generational, passed down to you. Fun!
such precious heirlooms
Thanks for airing the unmentionables! So interesting to see these antique garments!
Perfect title! What a guy, a much younger wife and he knitted! Your grandfathers repairs are amazing.