Last Updated on January 28, 2023 by Ellen Christian
Danforth Pewter is free and open to the public. I was thrilled to receive a personal tour through the facility by the CEO.
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Thomas Danforth opened the first Danforth pewter workshop in 1755 in colonial Connecticut. There is even colonial Danforth pewter in the Smithsonian! For as long back as I can remember, we have had Danforth Pewter Christmas ornaments on our Christmas tree so I decided it was time to learn more about where they came from.
Danforth Pewter in Middlebury Vermont
In case you did not know (and I didn’t), pewter is an alloy of tin, copper and antimony. It used to be used for things like dishes and drinkware and candlesticks because it was both beautiful and durable. Then cheaply made alternatives like china started to be more commonly available and the use of pewter fell out of fashion. Two hundred years after the Danforths began working with pewter, the current owners revived the family tradition by founding Danforth Pewter in Vermont.
The Middlebury location of Danforth Pewter contains both a store and a workshop. The artisans in the workshop use traditional techniques to make contemporary and historic designs. Some pewter items are created by pouring the melted pewter into molds. Other items are cast on a wheel sort of like pottery. Many items are made of many smaller pieces that are then welded together to make the final piece.
While you are at Danforth Pewter you can take a look at a historic timeline with examples of the pewter items that were created during those times. You can also watch a movie about Danforth Pewter and watch the artisans creating Danforth Pewter items. All of the items for sale at the 5 Danforth Pewter locations and online are created in this workshop.
I loved visiting Danforth Pewter in Middlebury Vermont. I learned a lot about what pewter is and how it was used historically. I also had an amazing time shopping as well. Just a few of the items you can find include jewelry, personal accessories, holiday ornaments, oil lamps, candlesticks, goblets, vases, picture frames and many gift items. The next time you’re in Vermont, stop by Danforth Pewter in Middlebury Vermont and visit their workshop and do a bit of shopping!
52 Seymour Street
Middlebury VT 05753
800-222-3142
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Ellen is a busy mom of a 24-year-old son and 29-year-old daughter. She owns six blogs and is addicted to social media. She believes that it doesn’t have to be difficult to lead a healthy life. She shares simple healthy living tips to show busy women how to lead fulfilling lives. If you’d like to work together, email info@confessionsofanover-workedmom.com to chat.
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