Antique Sheffield Silver Plate Double Biscuit Box – 1889 Marriage Presentation to Mrs. Duckworth
A magnificent example of late Victorian silver plate craftsmanship, this handled and footed double biscuit box is as meaningful as it is beautiful. Made in Sheffield, England, it features two lidded compartments with gently domed covers and a central handle for elegant presentation.
Each lid bears a deeply sentimental engraving:
• “Presented to MRS DUCKWORTH as a token of welcome”
• “BY THE WORK PEOPLE OF Church Bunch Mill on the occasion of her Marriage Church, March 2, 1889”
The inscriptions reveal this was a treasured marriage gift, that was most likely presented by mill workers to the new bride of a local figure in the Lancashire village of Church. It speaks to a time when personal relationships and community ties were celebrated with meaningful, enduring objects like this.
Historical Note:
Bunch Mill in Church, Lancashire, was founded in 1881 by William Duckworth & Sons. By 1889, it ran over 1,000 looms producing fine shirtings. This biscuit box was gifted to Mrs. Duckworth by the mill workers on her marriage—a rare surviving tribute to Victorian mill life and community tradition.
🔍 Condition:
This piece is in good vintage condition, with signs of age and wear consistent with its history. Please review all photos closely, as they are considered part of the description and reflect the item’s true character and beauty.
📏 Measurements:
Dimensions can be found in the listing photos. Feel free to message me if you’d like exact measurements or scale comparisons.
💛 Thoughtfully Curated & Packaged:
Each treasure is hand-selected with care, and every order is packed with love and attention to detail to ensure it arrives safely to you.
Whenever possible, we use reclaimed packaging—including estate-sale finds like vintage jewelry boxes—and our bubble wrap is made from recycled plastic ♻️
We kindly ask that you recycle your packaging too. Thank you for helping us care for the planet!
✨ Questions?
I’m always happy to provide additional photos or information. Just send a message!
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Your antique friend,
Claudia
XOXO
