Papers, 1739-1856, bulk 1809-1834.

ArchivalResource

Danforth family. Papers, 1739-1856, bulk 1809-1834.

Papers, 1739-1856, bulk 1809-1834.

http://www.worldcat.org/oclc/84666190

The collection consists of three property deeds relating to land owned by the family in Norwich, Ct.; two promissory notes; an account documenting repair work on a brass kettle performed by John Danforth; twelve letters between Thomas Danforth, III, Thomas Danforth, IV, and Thomas, III's daughter, Betsey; and two account books kept by Thomas, III. The bulk of the letters were written by Thomas, IV to his parents and sister. Writing from Philadelphia, Pa. and later, Augusta, Ga. between 1812 and 1831, discusses his attitudes toward work and attempts to sell pewter and tin to peddlers. He also mentions his wages and contacts. Interspersed with the business discussion is much commentary about the family and conditions in Connecticut, Philadelphia, and Georgia. In an early letter, dated 1806, Thomas III, notes how business prospects are better in Philadelphia than in Connecticut. The final two letters, written by Thomas, III to Thomas, IV and Betsey in 1834 are very similar and mention the activities of various family members. Thomas, III's account books record the manufacture and production of pewter and tin from 1809 to 1835. The first volume is a ledger. Although most of the entries do not mention specific objects, the dollar volume of sales and the names of Danforth's customers are provided The interrelated activities of men in the same craft is also demonstrated; for example, Blakeslee Barnes bought large numbers of mugs and other hollowware. The second volume, kept from 1809 to 1820, records the daily production of journeyman tinsmiths, the piecework rates, the articles being produced, and the names of the men who were both making and selling the tin. Many of Danforth's customers were storekeepers in Philadelphia and Connecticut. Both the account books were used in the 1840s and 1850s by Mary W. and Henry F. Danforth to record agricultural activities and miscellaneous purchases. Many items were found laid in these manuscripts. Included are bills to Mary for fabric and other dressmaking supplies, a passbook for groceries, accounts for boarders, a few documents pertaining to the estate of Thomas Danforth, an almanac, a copy book, and a report card for Walter W. Danforth.

1 box.

Winterthur Library