The Silversmith in Eighteenth-Century Williamsburg An Account of His Life & Times, & of His Craft

"The Silversmith in Eighteenth-Century Williamsburg" by Thomas K. Ford is a historical journey into the world of colonial craftsmen during the 1700s. It brings to light the story of artisans like James Craig and James Geddy Jr., who shaped beautiful objects from silver in Williamsburg, Virginia. The book explores not just what they made, but how they lived, learned their skills, and participated in the growing American marketplace. It's about advertisements, workshops, and the balancing act between creating unique silver pieces and competing with goods shipped from Britain. Through detailed descriptions of techniques like casting and forging, the book tells how these silversmiths contributed to their community's economy and culture, leaving behind a legacy of skill and artistry.