The Provenance: Clarissa Briggs of Cummington, MA
Inked elegantly across the back is the flowing signature of its original owner: Clarissa Briggs Cummington (1790-1872).
Historical registries confirm that Clarissa Briggs was born in the historic hill town of Cummington, Hampshire County, Massachusetts. Incorporated just 11 years prior in 1779, was a typical early American hill town driven by farming, timber, and later, wool production. Growing up there in the 1790s and early 1800s meant Clarissa was part of a tight-knit, hardworking pioneer community. At the time this chest was crafted and lined in the autumn of 1809, Clarissa was a 19-year-old young woman. This trunk almost certainly served as her personal hope chest, built to hold her prized textiles and belongings as she came of age. Clarissa lived a long life in the Berkshire hills, later relocating to Lanesborough, Massachusetts. The last photo shows her headstone in Center Cemetery which still stands there today.
The Interior Lining: Governor Christopher Gore’s 1809 Proclamation
The interior of the chest is completely lined with a remarkably preserved historic broadside document: Governor Christopher Gore’s (1758–1827) Thanksgiving Proclamation for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
Issued in Boston on October 17, 1809, this official decree designated Thursday, November 30, 1809, as a day of public thanksgiving, praise, and prayer. In the early 19th century, New Englanders frequently recycled large, printed broadsides and newspapers to line utilitarian wooden chests. This practical step protected fine linens from wood splinters and dampness. Today, it provides an immutable, historical anchor that perfectly matches the timeline of Clarissa’s signature.
Very good antique condition. Shows wear commensurate with age and use. Features a magnificent, highly coveted original historic surface. Layers of deep, weathered, chippy green paint peek through to reveal a warm, natural aged pine patina underneath. Classic primitive New England utility construction utilizing solid plank softwoods, authentic period hand-cut dovetail joinery, and durable iron hardware. Excellent structural integrity for its 215+ years of age. The exterior ink signature remains remarkably legible. The interior broadside paper lining is incredibly intact, displaying a beautiful historic sepia tone with minor expected age-toning and wear. The original strap locking mechanism has broken off and the original key lost long ago. Hinges are strong and function properly as a fully usable storage box.
A very important piece of Americana, spanning from the presidency of George Washington to the aftermath of the American Civil War.
Due to the fragile nature of the 215-year-old interior paper lining and the historic chippy exterior finish, this piece will be packed with extraordinary care. It is highly recommended to display this piece in a climate-controlled interior environment away from direct sunlight to preserve the paper and original pigment for generations to come.
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