Pen from City Hall

Object/Artifact

-

St. Joseph Museums

The image depicts an old, seemingly well-used wooden pen that bears handwritten inscriptions along its length. The words "This pen used for signing city hall contracts" are written in what appears to be ink, with a slightly faded and uneven appearance, hinting at the passage of time and frequent handling. The pen is laid on a textured, neutral-colored surface that contrasts subtly with the wood's natural brown shade. Its cylindrical shape is simple and unadorned, lacking any modern embellishments, which adds to its appearance of being a historical or vintage item. The inscriptions suggest that the pen was once an important tool, possibly employed in official capacities or ceremonial functions within a governmental setting, as indicated by the mention of "city hall" and "contracts." The handwriting is a mix of printed and cursive styles, suggesting personalization by the original owner or users. This pen, aged yet persistent, serves as a physical reminder of a bygone era, reflecting an intertwining of personal and official history encapsulated.

The image depicts an old, seemingly well-used wooden pen that bears handwritten inscriptions along its length. The words "This pen used for signing city hall contracts" are written in what appears to be ink, with a slightly faded and uneven appearance, hinting at the passage of time and frequent handling. The pen is laid on a textured, neutral-colored surface that contrasts subtly with the wood's natural brown shade. Its cylindrical shape is simple and unadorned, lacking any modern embellishments, which adds to its appearance of being a historical or vintage item. The inscriptions suggest that the pen was once an important tool, possibly employed in official capacities or ceremonial functions within a governmental setting, as indicated by the mention of "city hall" and "contracts." The handwriting is a mix of printed and cursive styles, suggesting personalization by the original owner or users. This pen, aged yet persistent, serves as a physical reminder of a bygone era, reflecting an intertwining of personal and official history encapsulated.

Name/Title

Pen from City Hall

Entry/Object ID

2026.6.1

Description

Pen from City Hall. Reads: "This Pen use for Signing City Hall Contracts by"

Context

Item from City Hall time capsule, buried March 27, 1926 and opened March 27, 2026.

Made/Created

Artist

CITY OF ST. JOSEPH - CITY HALL

Date made

1926

Inscription/Signature/Marks

Type

Note

Location

On Pen

Transcription

"This Pen Use For Signing City Hall Contracts by"

Language

English

Lexicon

Nomenclature 4.0

Nomenclature Primary Object Term

Pen

Nomenclature Sub-Class

Writing Devices

Nomenclature Class

Written Communication T&E

Nomenclature Category

Category 06: Tools & Equipment for Communication

Dimensions

Length

12 in