Milk Pail

Summary

Tin-plated iron, commonly called "tin," was the dominant material for utilitarian items in 19th-century America. It was lightweight, inexpensive, easy to clean, non-toxic, and durable. Tinware also resisted corrosion and had a pleasing silvery appearance that could be enhanced through decoration. Middle-class Americans happily purchased tinware in place of goods made from earlier materials, like wood or pottery.

Tin-plated iron, commonly called "tin," was the dominant material for utilitarian items in 19th-century America. It was lightweight, inexpensive, easy to clean, non-toxic, and durable. Tinware also resisted corrosion and had a pleasing silvery appearance that could be enhanced through decoration. Middle-class Americans happily purchased tinware in place of goods made from earlier materials, like wood or pottery.

Artifact

Pail

Location

Not on exhibit to the public.

Object ID

71.1.324

Credit

From the Collections of The Henry Ford. Gift of David M. Gwinn.

Material

Tin (Metal)

Color

Gray (Color)

Dimensions

Height: 15 in

Width: 13 in

Length: 12 in

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