Wilton Historical Society Silversmithing Workshop for Kids: Making a Necklace

In colonial times, silversmiths made many essential small items, such as buttons, shoe buckles and spoons, and repaired silver items for wealthy and middle-class citizens. But they also made elegant larger pieces, such as coffee and tea pots, candle sticks, trays and pitchers. According to the historians at Colonial Williamsburg ,“The 18th-century silversmith was thought of as someone akin to a sculptor. Both had to know how to shape their materials with artistic talent, taste, and design. A contemporary observed that the silversmith was ’employed in making all manner of utensils . . . either for Ornament or Use. His work is either performed in the Mould, or beat into Figure by the Hammer.’”

At this workshop for kids, museum educator Laurie Walker will talk about how it was done, and about a very famous silversmith, Paul Revere. For a workshop project, the kids will make a piece of “silver” jewelry (a pendant on a silk cord) of hammered solder, to keep – or perhaps to give as a Valentine’s surprise. Snack of tea sandwiches.

Suggested for children aged 6-12. The cost for Wilton Historical Society members is $10 per child, with a maximum of $25 per family; non-member fee is $15 per child, with a maximum of $35 per family. Please register via email or call 203.762.7257.

Did You Know?

“Paul Revere was a versatile craftsman. He eagerly met the needs of his customers, not hesitating to create new forms or adopt the latest styles. His shop made a great variety of items, at least 90 different types. His products included flatware, mostly spoons; table wares such as cups, tankards, porringers, salts, casters, trays, and bowls; tea and coffee equipment such as coffee and teapots, creamers, sugar tongs and sugar urns; personal items such as gold jewelry and buttons, and silver buckles; and metal harness fittings, among other things. His most unusual pieces were made before the Revolution, when he crafted a chain for a pet squirrel, an ostrich egg snuffbox, and a child’s whistle. He also made brass gunner’s calipers for two British officers, silver letters for the back of a chaise, surgical instruments, and a sword hilt. Revere did not work in pewter.” – Paul Revere House website