Artifact Spotlight - Altered Materials

Pierced thimble from the Sylvester Manor collection

A pierced thimble, an etched ferrule, and rolled copper cones are present in the Sylvester Manor collection. These items are representative of copper trade goods that may have been modified by Native people at this site for use as tinkling cones.

A tinkling cone is commonly a small piece of copper that has been rolled into a cylindrical shape and attached to accessories, clothing, or adornment. They are used by Native people on dancing and ceremonial clothing, making a jingling noise as one moves. Regalia worn by women in the Jingle Dance at Powwows specifically uses tinkler cones to make a jingling noise as they dance the circle.

Etched ferrule from the Sylvester Manor collection

Rolled Cone from the Sylvester Manor collection

Repurposing materials such as these is one of the many ways that Native people at Sylvester Manor continued to practice their cultural traditions, using materials available in changing circumstances, while navigating an increasingly dangerous political climate in New England and an oppressive labor system at the Manor.

Photos:

Pierced thimble; Etched ferrule; Rolled cone all from Sylvester Manor