Most of the furniture hardware
is of brass (probably used after 1650). Since much of it is skillfully
decorated, it is believed that it once was attached to furniture of high
quality. Furniture used during the first two decades of the settlement,
however, must have been simple with little or no ornamentation.
LIGHTING DEVICES
The candle, made of either tallow or bayberry wax, was the standard
lighting device at Jamestown. Pine torches were often used out of doors,
and rushlights and candlewood were undoubtedly used in the humbler
dwellings during the very early years of the settlement. Candlesticks
unearthed at Jamestown include a large brass pricket holder, one made of
English sgraffito-ware, several incomplete earthenware holders, and
parts of delftware candlesticks. Many fragments of brass and iron
candlesticks, as well as a few candle snuffers, have also been
recovered.
[Illustration: BOTH BRASS AND POTTERY CANDLESTICKS HAVE BEEN FOUND. THE
CANDLE WAS THE STANDARD LIGHTING DEVICE DURING THE 17TH CENTURY.]
FIREPLACE ACCESSORIES
The fireplace, around which the family gathered, was one of the most
important features in the Jamestown home. Its fire offered warmth in
winter, afforded light at night, and cooked the family meals during the
day.
Pages:
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
32
33
34
35
36
37
38
39
40
41
42