Painted Firkin with Masonic Presentation

This firkin was presented to Robert Merrill Purves, born in Lisbon, New York in 1877. Lisbon, situated ten miles west of Potsdam near the Canadian border, lay just west of the Adirondack Park. Robert, one of twin sons, married Marion Sparrowhawk, whose family numbered among Lisbon's earliest settlers in the late 18th century.

Around 1933, the couple relocated to Canton, New York, where Robert maintained active memberships in St. Lawrence Lodge Number 111 (Free & Accepted Masons), the local Grange, and Scotch Presbyterian Church.

The firkin displays distinctive period paint decoration: a deep forest green body with salmon-colored banding that has mellowed to brown with age. The lid features red-painted Masonic symbols alongside the recipient's name, while the base retains its original bright orange finish.

Circa 1900

Excellent used condition

 Height with handle extended 20” Width 15 ½”

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