Historical information

A butter churn is a device used to convert cream into butter. This is done through a mechanical process, frequently via a pole inserted through the lid of the churn, or via a crank used to turn a rotating device inside the churn.

The use of butter is mentioned in biblical works and the earliest butter churn vessels belonging to Beersheba culture in Israel were found in Bir Abu Matar going back to Chalcolithic period between 6500–5500 BC.

The butter churn in Europe may have existed as early as the 6th century AD, In the European tradition, the butter churn was primarily a device used by women, and the churning of butter was an essential responsibility along with other household chores. In earlier traditions of butter making, nomadic cultures placed milk in skin bags and produced butter either by shaking the bag manually, or possibly by attaching the bag to a pack animal, and producing butter simply through the movement of the animal.

Significance

An item used to make butter in a domestic situation by turning a handle until the cream inside has turned to butter.

Physical description

Butter churn, wooden, lid pieces screwed or nailed together. Brass bearing on side with iron turning handle.

Inscriptions & markings

Handle marked 28204 no other marks to indicate manufacturer or date of production