Luncheon Fork

Maker Moses Eastman (American, 1794 - 1850)

Datec. 1847 - 1850

Mediumsilver

Dimensions6 3/4 × 1 inches (17.1 × 2.5 cm)

MarkingsMaker's mark stamped on the back of the handle: EASTMAN [in rectangle]; Hallmarks stamped on the back of the handle: patent 1845, L [over an illegible letter, in a rectangle]

Credit LineBequest of Gertrude West Hollowbush.

Object number1988.3.11

On View

Not on view

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 TextConnecticut born silversmith Moses Eastman (1794–1850) worked in Savannah for over two decades, from 1826 to 1850. He advertised extensively in local newspapers selling watches, jewelry, and other plated ware. Documented as an enslaver, Eastman also served as guardian to a free man of color named Sharp Marquand (c. 1783– unknown), whose occupation is listed as “jeweler” in historic records. It is unclear if Marquand, or any of those enslaved by Eastman, helped complete his work in the shop. In addition to silver making, Eastman bequeathed funds to form the first construction of a Unitarian Church, today known as the Unitarian Universalist Church of Savannah, located in Troup Square. This fork, with its Greek honeysuckle and leaves on the handle, demonstrates the enduring enthusiasm among wealthy 19th-century Americans for neoclassical motifs. It’s engraving “Soullard” on the handle indicates the fork descended through a prominent Georgia family, in both Chatham and Hancock counties.

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