Object Record
Images
Metadata
Object Name |
Gavel |
Catalog Number |
1937.5.2 |
Date |
1937 |
Material(s) |
Wood |
Dimensions |
H-3.875 W-2 D-11.5 inches |
Description |
This is a turned wooden gavel made from a Boonesborough sycamore tree. |
Notes |
Boonesborough was settled by an expedition led by Richard Henderson and Daniel Boone in 1775. It was one of the first English-speaking settlements in what would later become Kentucky. By 1877, it had been almost completely abandoned. A gavel is used as a ceremonial symbol of authority at formal meetings. Wood from fallen trees at historic sites or salvaged wood from historic buildings were often turned into gavels, reinforcing the ceremonial significance of the gavel. The donor, Dr. J.T. Dorris, served on the Daniel Boone Bicentennial Commission in 1934 and president of the Madison County Historical Society. He was a professor of history and government at Eastern Kentucky University. |
Collection |
Dr. J.T. Dorris Collection |
People |
Boone, Daniel, 1734-1820 |
Subjects |
Ceremonies Frontier & pioneer life Gavels Judges Sycamores |
Physical Holder |
Kentucky Historical Society - KHS |