Salt Spoon
Datec. 1850 - 1860
Mediumsilver plate
Dimensions3 7/8 inches (9.8 cm)
MarkingsMaker's mark on the handle back: H.P. HORTON
Credit LineGift of James A. Williams.
Object number1968.18.90
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 TextThis silver-plated salt spoon or salt ladle, used on the dining table to scoop salt from a tiny dish called a salt cellar, is an example of Savannah silversmith Humphrey P. Horton’s work. Horton, who was born in Connecticut in 1822, was active in the partnership of Horton & Rikeman in Savannah from 1850 to 1856, and he listed as a jeweler in the city in the 1860 United States Census. His wife Mary and an Irish servant named Ann Briget are listed living with him in the household. According to the US Census Slave Schedule for that year, he also enslaved a young Black man, age 14.
The salt ladle has a beaded, coffin handle and is engraved “CS,” surrounded by a miniscule border.
