Pocketbook

DateCa. 1780

MediumLeather with marbelized lining papers and iron/steel clasp.

DimensionsOL: 7"; OW: 4 5/8"

Credit LineGift of Mr. and Mrs. Thomas W. Wood.

Object number1993-440

DescriptionMan's brown leather folding pocketbook with two interior pockets and folding flap, fastened with metal clasp and later cord ties. Remnants of marbelized lining papers on the interior.
Label TextSamuel Galt kept this leather pocketbook as a memento of his brother, Charles Lee Galt, who had apparently died in the city of Jérémie in Haiti (spelled “Jreemie” on the pocketbook). The two men were the sons of James Galt, superintendent of the Williamsburg public hospital.

MarkingsInscribed in ink: "This was once the Pocket-Book of my dearest Brother, Charles Lee Galt, now buried in the Sands of Jreemie [probably Jérémie, Haiti]; which book was presented to him by his Brother S. Galt, and which their Father knew, and which is now presented to William Trebell Galt, by his brother. SAM'L. GALT, RICHMOND, JAN. 20, 1799."
ProvenanceThis object has a documented Virginia history Inscribed "This was once the Pocket-Book of my dearest Brother, Charles Lee Galt, now buried in the Sands of Jreemie; which book was presented to him by his Brother S. Galt, and which is now presented to William Trebell Galt, by his brother. SAM"L. GALT, RICHMOND , JAN. 20, 1799."