Beaker
Datec. 1840
Mediumsilver
Dimensions3 7/8 × 3 1/8 inches (9.8 × 7.9 cm)
MarkingsMaker's mark stamped on the bottom: T.T.WILMOT [in rectangle];
Pseudo-hallmarks stamped on the bottom: king's head [in circle]; G [in circle]; lion passant [in rectangle]
Credit LineGift of Janet T. Spillane in memory of Miss Mary Bernard Goette and Miss Catherine Anne Goette.
Object number2006.72.2
CopyrightThe images and text contained on this page are owned by Telfair Museums or used by the Museum with permission from the owners. Unauthorized reproduction, transmission or display of these materials is prohibited with the exception of items deemed “fair use” as defined by U.S. and international copyright laws.Label TextThomas T. Wilmot (1804–1850; active in Savannah 1843–1850) was born in Connecticut, and established business in Savannah in 1843 at the stand formerly occupied by silversmith Oscar J. H. Dibble (1812–1860). His shop at No. 1 Market Square advertised an assortment of objects such as watches, silverware, pins, and musical instruments. Like many silversmiths, Wilmot likely relied on the use of Black laborers to work in his shop as announced in a newspaper advertisement in 1845. Wilmot passed away in early 1850, and his cousin and former business partner, Samuel Wilmot Jr. (1807–1894) assumed control of his business. This beaker was likely one of a pair of “campaign cups” from an officer’s kit during the Mexican American War (1846-1848). The officer later gave them to his orderly. Although usually smaller, campaign cups typically take a similar slightly tapered shape and flared rim so that they can be nested. The applied ring banding at the base may prevent that function, so these may be more ceremonial items. The inscription “C.G.” within it was added by the last owner of the beaker.
