Meet the Osgoode Stockings, a 1907 recreation pattern from Canada’s knitting history past!

Last August I met museum curator Holly Benison, who gave a fascinating presentation on Canadian Knitting History through knitted objects at at the Osgoode Township Museum in Ottawa, Canada. One of the items she had on display for us was this remarkable pair of vibrant hand knit stockings for a Mr. Hugh McDiarmid in 1907.

The original pair (shown in the last image) is in a striking cobalt blue and bright orange, and is rather unusual for the decade. Not only are they eclectic in color, but they are slightly larger in gauge (compared to the teensy 9+ stitches per inch common for many stockings of the day) and have an interesting textured lace stitch throughout. I am thrilled to have gotten permission to study them and a create this Edwardian inspired pattern!

The Osgoode Stockings aim to be an exact replica of the original pair. They come in three sizes and two different lengths, the original stocking length and a “regular” calf length sock, shown here in the lovely green and beige combination inspired by Canadian born painter Helen McNicoll’s (1879 - 1915) Chintz Sofa painting. They use an interested textured lace stitch throughout, and slightly different heel flap & toe instructions than a contemporary sock pattern.

If you would like to find out more about the Osgoode Township Museum check out their webpage here, or visit them in person!

This pattern is available at Squid’s School of Vintage Knitting on Patreon. Come learn more about this interesting piece of knitting history, and make your own version!