Description

The history of the Plymouth Rock weight is somewhat indefinite, but the general consensus is that the New England Glass Company made the original weights for The Providence Inkstand Company in 1876. In addition, there is some indication that apparently exact copies of the original weights were made and sold as souvenirs in and around Plymouth, MA as late as the 1970s. To this day it is doubtful whether anyone can positively tell if a specific example is from the 1876 time frame or if it is a much newer example. What we do know is that these weights come in two sizes, but otherwise the two examples are the same. This is the large one. On the upper surface of the "rock" are the raised numerals 1620. Around the under side of the lip, in very tiny letters, are the words "A rock in the wilderness welcomed our sires from bondage far over the rolling sea. On that holy altar they kindled the fires Jehovah! Which glow in our bosoms for thee". In even tinier letters along the beveled edge of the base are the words "Pilgrim Rock Trademark Providence Inkstand Company 1876", and "Mary Chilton was the first to land upon the rock Dec. 21, 1620". (See Bottom View picture). There is some variation in the various wordings between examples, but there is no positive identification as to which wording is the original and/or if the newer weights had more or less words on them (see page 7 of "The Boston & Sandwich and New England Glass Companies" by John D. Hawley.) This weight is 4-1/8" long, 2-7/8" wide, and 1-5/8" tall. It may an antique weight as old as 1876 or it may be as new as the 1970s. Condition is perfect. Buyer pays shipping at Post Office cost as calculated by eBay. Satisfaction guaranteed***BID WITH CONFIDENCE*** We GUARANTEE our identifications, descriptions, condition, AND YOUR SATISFACTION or we will refund your purchase price. Thanks for bidding! 32376