posted 12-19-2003 08:53 PM            

Recently a lovely unmarked presentation goblet went up for bid. The inscription caught my eye and I did a bit of digging. With the auction over and the new owner's permission, here is the piece:

The inscription reads in full:
Presented to / N. Tillinghast, / As a token of Affection, / by the United Classes of the 34th Term, / B.N.S., / July 1st, 1851

The gentleman in question was Nicholas Tillinghast, born 30 Sep 1804 in Taunton MA to Nicholas and Betsey (Atwell) Tillinghast. He was graduated at the United States military academy in 1824, and entering the United States army as 2nd lieutenant in the 7th Infantry, served for two years on garrison duty at Fort Gibson in the Indian territory. Afterward he returned to the military academy, where, in 1827-'34 he was successively assistant professor of chemistry, mineralogy, and geology, and of geography, history, and ethics, he was promoted captain on 1 June, 1835, and joined his regiment at Fort Gibson, but resigned on 31 July, 1836. Captain Tillinghast then settled in Boston, where he received pupils in mathematics. In 1840 he was appointed principal of the state normal school at Bridgewater MA and he continued to fill this post until failing health compelled his resignation in July, 1853. Bridgewater Normal School later became Bridgewater State College. He was very influential in the development of normal school education and the Nicholas Tillinghast Award is given annually to Massachusetts teachers for excellence in education. On a silver note, his aunt, Mary Atwell, was the wife of David Vinton, the Providence silversmith.

Now, fellow readers, any speculation as to the maker? It may have been purchased in Providence, which is about 18 miles from Bridgewater, or further away in Boston. The base shows evidence of raising

and the whole design has a nice balance and pleasing proportions. Who did those grateful students visit in the summer of 1851?

posted 12-20-2003 11:30 PM            

Neat piece!.. My guess is Gorham & Thurber as they were probably the largest (or most advertised) company in the area.