Susanna Passavant facts for kids

Susanna Passavant (1711–1790) was an important English businesswoman. She was known for selling fancy items, or "luxury goods," all around the world.

Early Life and Training

Susanna came from a family of jewelers. They were Huguenots, who were French Protestants who moved to England. She learned her trade by becoming an apprentice. She trained with a group called the Worshipful Company of Spectacle Makers. This meant she learned from a master craftsman, George Willdey. She learned how to make items like glasses and other small goods.

On January 8, 1735, Susanna finished her training. She became a full member of the company. This was called "Freedom by Servitude." After her training, she set up her business in the City of London.

Building Her Business

Before opening her own store, Susanna gained valuable experience. She worked as a manager for George Willdey. Later, she managed shops for Thomas Willdey. These shops were "toy shops" located on Ludgate Street. They sold many different small items, not just playthings.

In the early 1750s, Susanna Passavant opened her own shop. It was called The Plume of Feathers. Her shop was located on Ludgate Hill in London. She sold a wide variety of items there. These included accessories, beautiful jewelry, and various small goods.

International Success

The Plume of Feathers became very successful. It sold luxury items both in England and to customers in other countries. Susanna worked with a London trading company. This company was called Robert Cary & Company. Through this partnership, she exported her jewelry to customers in America.

Some of her famous American customers included George Washington and Martha Washington. This shows how far her business reached.

Lasting Legacy

Many of the products Susanna Passavant sold are still around today. For example, some jewelry from Mount Vernon, George Washington's home, was sold by her. These preserved items help us remember her important work.