Wooden Ladle
Name/Title
Wooden LadleEntry/Object ID
2015.61.5Description
Ladle skillfully carved from a single continuous piece of wood. This ladle belonged to Frances Howe at the time of her death.Context
The origins of this ladle are unclear. One theory suggests the animal figure at the top of the ladle represents the Dalecarlian horse, a traditional Swedish toy that became a national symbol. The Swedish immigrant community of Baillytown represented the largest concentration of Euro-American settlers near the Bailly homestead. Drawn to the region by the promise of work in nearby sawmills, several Swedes found additional work at the homestead, employed by the Baillys as cooks, maids, and carpenters. A second theory suggests that the object was designed as an effigy ladle, a serving utensil traditionally used by Algonquin and Iroquois tribes of the Great Lakes at communal feasts. The hook at the end of the handle latched onto the edge of the serving bowl, preventing the utensil from falling in. The unique animal figure distinguished each one, ensuring feast attendees left with the correct ladle. If it is an effigy ladle, Frances could have acquired it as a family heirloom that was originally a gift from Native Americans with whom they traded.Acquisition
Accession
2015.61Source or Donor
Found in CollectionAcquisition Method
Found in CollectionMade/Created
Time Period
19th CenturyDimensions
Height
23 inWidth
4-3/4 inDepth
3-1/2 inExhibitions
Against the Grain
From a Bailly Point of View