Lizzy Glenn; Or, The Trials of a Seamstress

"Lizzy Glenn; Or, The Trials of a Seamstress" by T. S. Arthur, navigates the difficult lives of seamstresses in the 1800s and the general problems facing women in an indifferent public. Lizzy Glenn, the story's main character, struggles with poverty and society's expectations as she tries to find job as a young seamstress. The novel starts in a bleak Boston clothing store and shows the hard truth of women who need needlework to live. Lizzy is treated cruelly by store owners and is paid almost nothing for her work. The novel depicts Mrs. Gaston, another seamstress, who handles caring for her sick child while attempting to make ends meet. The story shows how much these women work hard and emphasizes their ability to keep going and the powerful relationships they have with one another.