Danforth Pewter in Middlebury Vermont

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 Middlebury Vermont

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.

Danforth Pewter Middlebury Vermont
Pewter in a mold

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.

Danforth Pewter Middlebury Vermont
Pewter being spun
Danforth Pewter Middlebury Vermont
End of the spinning process

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.

Danforth Pewter Middlebury Vermont

Danforth Pewter Middlebury Vermont

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!

Danforth Pewter

52 Seymour Street

Middlebury VT 05753

800-222-3142

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