Indian corn decorations, presented by friendly Natives who subsequently died of smallpox.

Baby swaddler with loop for hanging on the wall.

Stiff black hat with a tiny pamphlet of favorite Bible verses tucked into the headband.

Hand-woven dolls to hang above the hearth to remember how many of your children have died.

Corporal-punishment paddle with hand-carved heart.

Form-fitting smock with stones double-stitched into pockets, for testing whether the wearer is a witch via throwing her into the river.

Blacksmith-forged weatherproof iron grappling hook, for dredging children out of wells.

Foolproof and attractive knots for hanging Quakers.

Miniature pewter stein for serving rum to fussy toddlers.

Bonnets with ribbons to tie under women’s jaws in church, to remind them not to speak.

– Jay Gabler

Photo by Becky Brewer (Creative Commons)