Revolutionary War era Foot Warmer with cup, as in Ft. William Henry Museum and books

This is another interesting piece being offered, it is a very early tin “Foot Warmer”, circa 1710 – 1800. It is made of sheet-tin and measures 8” x 9” x 6” high with a bail wire carrying handle. The sides, front door and top have been meticulously hand-punched and decorated.

Inside the warmer is a crude tin cup with handle. It measures 4 ½” x 2 ½” and the bottom is attached with copper rivets. During the 18th and 19th centuries, these foot warmers were a necessity in a sleigh, wagon or carriage during the winter months of traveling. They were also used in the parlor (see painting).

Before the carriage trip, one would have to fill the tin bowl with hot coals from the fireplace and place it inside the door of the foot warmer. It did not produce a lot of heat but was enough to take the chill out during the ride.

This early 18th century piece remains in beautiful condition for its age – not rusted out or dented as many of the surviving examples. The seams are soldered and it has a crude latch to open and close the door. In the Fort Henry Museum in New York, there is an identical example of this warmer. It is very rare to find the original tin cup still with the foot warmer, that in itself is a pricey collectible.

With the 250th anniversary of the nation's founding this year, interest in the Revolutionary War and its relics are significantly increasing. This renewed enthusiasm is driving the demand for virtually all Revolutionary War artifacts, further contributing to their scarcity and rising prices.