Revolutionary War Soldier’s Spoon, recovered at Fort Haldimand, NY

This is another early piece coming out of an old Revolutionary War collection. Being offered is a large Revolutionary War soldier’s spoon, measuring 8 1/2” x 1  ¾”. It is made of pewter and has a monogram which appears to be a “W” and some touch marks which are probably English. The tag on it reads “Ft. Haldimand / William / Henry”.

Located near the head of Carleton Island, Fort Haldimand was built in 1777 as a staging area for the British during the American Revolution. Molly Brant, a Mohawk leader who worked to keep the Iroquois Confederacy loyal to the British during the war, lived at Fort Haldimand for a time.

It was initially named for Sir Guy Carleton, Governor of Canada, and Commander of British forces in Canada. Renamed Fort Haldimand for Sir Frederick Haldimand, Carleton's replacement. Construction was halted in 1783, and the post was abandoned in 1812.

These spoons are in the Colonial Williamsburg Museum, Fort Ticonderoga Museum, and “Collector’s Illustrated Encyclopedia of the American Revolution” by Neumann & Kravic (see pictures).  Also, there are examples of excavated spoons at just about all Revolutionary War sites.  

Revolutionary War artifacts have always been difficult to find, and I am fortunate to have quite a few pieces in stock. With the upcoming of the 250th anniversary of the nation's founding next year, there will be a revitalized interest. Just about all Revolutionary War relics and artifacts will be in demand, which will only add to their scarcity and price. I am already seeing a substantial increase in purchases.