Found near 1739 Tavern

[n3tuf]

Found this today behind the Rose Tree Tavern built in 1739 located in Upper Providence, PA It looks very old with a green patina. Any ideas as to what it might be? It's about 2.5" long and 1" wide.

 

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[Bigcypresshunter]

Thanks for sharing the rein guide photos. However, I still don't think that's what it is. We're all entitled to our opinions and mine is that it's a sign hanger. Having been in the sign business for more than a few years I have seen very similar examples. I guess that tempers my thought.

Out of the endless possibilities for this shape, your sign suggestion is a good one. I only guessed horse item because the majority of colonial brass items found are horse related. It seems everyone had horses.

One thought I have though is the size. I would imagine a colonial sign the type you posted, would be made from a very large piece of wood. Dont you think this 1 x 2 inch item is a little smallish to slide over a large wood beam? And dont you think the hole is kinda small for the hooks? I guess its a small sign. 8)

 

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[DirtDigler]

Might be a little small for a wood brace, but an iron one would be a dandy fit. There is no ruler in the shot, so it's hard to say how big it is, the finder's eyeball estimate is the only gauge. The sign example in my photo is a modern reproduction and it looks like a standard screw hook from Home Depot is used to hang it. Signs of the colonial era used a number of different methods to attach a sign.

That said, it may be a rein guide which attaches in some unique manner and is inexplicably taller than it needs to be, who knows?

 

[Bigcypresshunter]

at this point it appears to be unsolved.

 

[DirtDigler]

Assuming it's a period artifact, such things are difficult to identify because they are so far removed from this day and age. "Colonial Artifacts" by Ivor Noel-Hume is a great resource if you can find it. May help with more of your tavern treasures.

 

[Brian C.]

I just wonder if it is off a stage coach, there were fancy coaches in those days I am sure. Just a wild guess.