On View
Slavery and Freedom Gallery
Exhibition
Slavery and Freedom
Created by
Lafar, John Joseph, American, 1784 - 1849
Date
1815
Medium
metal
Dimensions
H x W: 2 7/16 x 2 1/2 in. (6.2 x 6.3 cm)
Description
A flat diamond-shaped badge with clipped corners and a hole at the top for suspension. “LAFAR” hallmark punched on the back. The elements on the front are as follows (top to bottom): "*CHARLESTON*" in a lunate bar punch; "No" in a square punch followed by an incuse "689" in deep individual punches; "SERVANT" in a rectangular punch; and "1815" bar punched at somewhat of an angle. The condition on this badge is extremely fine with well-defined elements, smooth surfaces, and an even medium brown patina. There is just a bit of verdigris at the bottom.
Place made
Charleston, South Carolina, United States, North and Central America
Classification
Slavery and Freedom Objects
Type
slave hire badges
Topic
Labor
Skilled labor
Slave hire system
Slavery
U.S. History, 1815-1861
Credit Line
Collection of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture
Object number
2010.27.3
Restrictions & Rights
No Known Copyright Restrictions
Proper usage is the responsibility of the user.
GUID
http://n2t.net/ark:/65665/fd5fc9e8e63-6f04-44fc-90c1-b8267fb9ec0f

Cataloging is an ongoing process and we may update this record as we conduct additional research and review. If you have more information about this object, please contact us at NMAAHCDigiTeam@si.edu

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