Historical information

This ink-well was used in the Bacchus Marsh Court House, possibly for book-keeping and/or for court records. This type of ink-well and pen were in use everywhere in schools, businesses, courts, etc before the invention of the type-writer and the ball-point pen. Clerks were usually male and a good copperplate hand-writing was admired. Ink was often mixed by hand used a powdered ink mixed with water.

Significance

Of local significance in the history of the town of Bacchus Marsh.

Physical description

Round pewter ink-well, with hinged lid and ceramic insert. Five round holes pierced in inner rim of metal to hold pens. Two ribbed bands around exterior of pot. Two bands indented around top of lid. Insert designed to hold ink. Pen with marbled blue handle, metal nib holder and metal nib.

Inscriptions & markings

Indecipherable imprint on bottom of pot, possibly machine markings. Illegible written marks on side of pewter pot. Ceramic insert marked on side and bottom by red and black ink.