Child's Shoes, about 1870

These are sturdy, simple, inexpensive half-boots likely worn by a working class child. Thick, strong leather would have been uncomfortable and unforgiving for the wearer.

Baby Booties, about 1930

Baby Rattle, about 1785

Coral and bells were rattles, whistles and teethers for fairly well to do babies in the eighteenth and early nineteenth century. It is also plausible that some were used in the country in the seventeenth century as they are depicted in European paintings from that era.Silversmiths produced these for purchase in gold and more commonly in silver. The coral could be replaced if it was broken or got too gummy.The coral is an essential part of this piece.It is smooth and cool for teething . Coral was…

Baby Rattle, about 1760-1780

Coral and bells was the common name for a baby rattle and teether-the bells made noise as the baby sucked on the coral and blew through the whistle.Coral was a cool, hard substance that felt good against teething gums; silversmiths kept a stock of gold and silver findings as well as coral to replace parts that were damaged.Many were made of silver and coral, probably fewer made in gold.Engraved initials indicate this may well have been a baby gift and those are the baby's initals.