Villa de Austin Writing box.

This is a replica of the writing box used by David Burnett, the president of the constitutional convention for the Republic of Texas. It is made of pecan and features highly detailed brass inlays as well as carved details. It is currently the centerpiece of a recreation of his office in the newly restored capital of the Republic of Texas in Austin. The original is on display in the state museum of Texas.

Johnson Hall pine writing box.

The estate inventory of Sir William Johnson completed at the time of his death in 1775 lists a pine writing box in an upstairs bedroom. Nothing is known about the original other than this single line description. As a result, a common English writing box was copied from antique white pine, a common wood of upstate New York to preserve the accuracy of the house as it was at the time of his death.

Sir William Johnson was the agent representing the British Crown in its dealings with the Iroquois people from the early 1750’s until his death in 1776. His relationship with these people was an important factor shaping the nature of the American experiment that evolved during this time. This home is now a museum located in Johnstown, New York.

Tricorn Hat Box.

Ft. Frederick was built in the early 1760’s as a chain of forts constructed by the British to store supplies and prevent an attack by the French from Canada. It is a stone structure that never saw battle. It is currently being restored to its original form and the officer’s quarters are being equipped with authentic objects of the day.

Such boxes were used to protect the hat from dust, dirt, and other spoils to maintain it in the best conditions possible.