Souvenir George Washington Hatchet
Manufacturer
Libbey Glass Co.
(American, 1888-)
CultureAmerican
Date1893
MediumPressed glass
DimensionsOverall: 8 in. (20.3 cm)
InscribedLower handle reads "Libbey Glass Co., Toledo, Ohio".
Credit LineGift of Mrs. Paul Brandwein
Object number79.166.18
On View
Chrysler Museum of Art, Gallery 116-3, Case 20
Label TextLibbey Glass Co. Operating at either the Chicago World's Fair or Toledo, Ohio Souvenir George Washington Hatchet, 1893 Pressed glass Inscribed: THE FATHER OF HIS COUNTRY / WORLD'S FAIR 1893 / LIBBEY GLASS CO. / TOLEDO, OHIO Gift of Mrs. Paul Brandwein 79.166.18 This souvenir glass hatchet alludes to the most famous George Washington myth and by extension to the integrity of the founding father. Ironically the story of the cherry tree was invented by Mason Locke Weems and first appeared in the fifth edition of his Life of George Washington, published in 1806: 'George,' said his father, 'do you know who killed that beautiful little cherry tree yonder in the garden?' This was a tough question; and George staggered under it for a moment; but quickly recovered himself: and looking at his father, with the sweet face of youth brightened with the inexpressible charm of all conquering truth, he bravely cried out, 'I can't tell a lie, Pa, you know I can't tell a lie; I did cut with my hatchet. ' Exhibition History"First in the Hearts of His Countrymen: America Remembers George Washington 1732-1799," Chrysler Museum of Art, Nov. 23, 1999 - Summer 2001. Published ReferencesMarsh, THE AMERICAN STORY RECORDED IN GLASS, pg. 118.
