The Tool Chest of Benjamin Seaton: 1797

Description

This important publication describes a unique set of over 200 antique tools and also the wooden tool chest (the best-preserved example of an 18th century cabinetmaker’s tool kit) which contains them, from the late eighteenth century, giving an extraordinary insight into the trade practices of the time. These tools were originally bought by Joseph Seaton for his son Benjamin but were hardly used – instead they survive intact, with an original inventory recording the prices paid at Christopher Gabriel’s London toolshop, and can be seen in the Guildhall Museum, Rochester, Kent, England.

Benjamin Seaton’s tool chest, offers a unique window into the practices of a British cabinetmaker of that era.

This second edition is much bigger and more detailed than the very popular first edition. It has more photographs (many in color) and revised text from expert tool historians.

Also included are measured drawings of many of the tools and of the chest itself.

Written by members of the Tools and Trades History Society and the staff of the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation, this detailed study of the chest provides a comprehensive account of its origins, construction, and contents.

Chapters devoted to Seaton’s collection of planes, saws, chisels, and layout tools place each of the nearly 200 tools in its historical context.

A fascinating reference for tool makers, collectors or anyone interested in the history of woodworking.

Published by The Tool and Trades History Society.

Softcover, 8 1/4″ × 10 1/2″, 180 pages