Thomas K. Ford
The Silversmith in Eighteenth-Century Williamsburg
An Account of His Life & Times, & of His Craft
"The Silversmith in Eighteenth-Century Williamsburg" by Thomas K. Ford is a historical account published in the late 20th century, focusing on the silversmithing craft during the Colonial period of America. The book examines the lives and practices of notable silversmiths in Williamsburg, Virginia, particularly highlighting figures such as James Craig and James Geddy Jr. It likely explores the socio-economic context of their work and the significance of their craft in pre-Revolutionary America. In this detailed exposition, Ford delves into the intricacies of silversmithing in Williamsburg, shedding light on the artisans' advertisements, the types of products they created, and their interplay with the marketplace of the era. The narrative provides insights into the lives of individual craftsmen, their apprenticeships, and the various roles they played in the community. Through a blend of historical anecdotes and detailed craftsmanship processes—including casting, forging, and decorative techniques—the book illustrates how these artisans contributed to both the economic and cultural fabric of the colonial settlement, while also reflecting on the broader preferences for British imports that shaped the demand for locally made silver goods.