This manuscript documents the professional work of Peter Ranck, joiner, cabinetmaker, and innkeeper. Chiefly used as an account book, the entries document Peter's early work as a joiner. References to doors, windows, stairs, and house building occur frequently in the first 35 pages. After approximately 1798, entries indicate that he focused on making case furniture, most likely because he was not well trained in the use of a lathe. He made over 80 beds, 60 "chists," and 45 tables. Ranck also built corner cupboards, kitchen dressers, coffins, cradles, dough trays, desks, and possibly tall case clocks. He painted many of these items, particularly the chests, with traditional Pennsylvania German motifs, and there is one entry for a gilted chest. Prices for his work varied widely according to size, style, and wood, but often multiple pieces were purchased at a time, most likely as wedding gifts. The manuscript contains several drawings. Of particular note is a design for a tall case clock with accompanying details of the carving, and a drawing of a dressing table. The attribution of these drawings is unclear, however, since the captions appear in another hand and the name Daniel Arndt appears prominently in the front of the book. Some of the business activities for Ranck's business as innkeeper are documented in this manuscript. Entries describe overnight lodging prices and food and beverage expenses incurred by lodgers. Several recipes, especially for cakes and cookies, are also noted. Ranck also sold hides, hogs, and other commodities. He hired several men to work for him, and their names and starting dates are recorded. Apparently Ranck supported his mother in her later years, since her expenses are noted in the manuscript as well.
