Thomas Spencer, Ship Chandler, Honolulu, Sandwich Islands, Brass Lantern

Description:

Thomas Spencer, Ship Chandler, Honolulu, Sandwich Islands, Brass Lantern, America, c. 1850s, pierced vent top with large brass loop handle, stepped base with intact removable font and burner, the globe etched "Thos Spencer/Ship Chandler/Honolulu SI," and encased within a wire cage, ht. 17 in.

Note: Thomas Spencer was born in Warwick, Rhode Island, in 1815. At an early age he entered the whaling trade. In 1846 Captain Thomas Spencer sailed the whaleship Triton from New Bedford, Massachusetts, to the Pacific Ocean, arriving at Lahaina in November 1847, then proceeding westward in search of whales. In January 1848 the ship arrived at Sydenham's Island, part of the Mulgrave archipelago. There Captain Spencer and a few members of his crew went ashore and were taken captive by the Natives. Twelve days later, he was rescued and transported to Honolulu where he arrived on March 15. He wrote an account of the ordeal that was published by the Sandwich Islands News Press later that year.

Thomas Spencer remained in Hawaii for the remainder of his life. He operated a successful ship chandlery in Honolulu from 1851 to 1861 then moved his business interests to Hilo and established a sugar plantation. He died in Hawaii on June 28, 1884.
Estimate $1,500-2,500


The absence of a condition statement does not imply that the lot is in perfect condition or completely free from wear and tear, imperfections or the effects of aging. Condition requests can be obtained via email (lot inquiry button) or by telephone to the appropriate gallery location (Boston/617.350.5400 or Marlborough/508.970.3000). Any condition statement given, as a courtesy to a client, is only an opinion and should not be treated as a statement of fact. Skinner Inc. shall have no responsibility for any error or omission.

Keywords