New photography by Shannon Ruff captured with a digital camera-2006.

Paperweight

Artist Providence Inkstand Co.

CultureAmerican

Date1876

MediumPressed glass | Gilt

DimensionsOverall: 4 in. (10.2 cm)

Inscribed"Pilgrim Rock Trade Mark 1876" and "Inkstand Co. Providence" (illegible because of nicks).

Credit LineGift of Mrs. Paul Brandwein

Object number79.166.31

On View

Not on view

DescriptionPaperweight of clear glass pressed into the form of Plymouth Rock. With worn gilt raised "1620" on top. Around bottom reads "A rock in the wilderness welcomed our sires from bondage far over the dark rolling sea. On that holy altar they kindled the fires, Jehova! which flow in our bosoms for thee". Also, small on the edge "Mary Chilton was the first to land upon Pilgrim Rock Dec. 21, 1620" and "In attempting to raise up the rock in 1775 it was split asunder. This is a facsimile of the upper part".

Published ReferencesMarsh, THE AMERICAN STORY RECORDED IN GLASS, pg. 30, #27.