Mitchell & Tyler was among the largest silverware and jewelry businesses in Richmond, VA from 1845 through 1866. William Mitchell Jr. trained as a silversmith in Boston and worked in Richmond Virginia from 1818 to 1845. He was initially in partnership with Elisha Taft from 1818 to 1820 under the firm Taft & Mitchell before establishing his own silversmith business that he grew to be largest in Virginia. Mitchell retailed a large range of products including both clocks and watches. He retired in 1845 and sold the business to his younger brother Samuel and John Tyler who continued under the name Mitchell & Tyler. The partnership of Samuel Phillips Mitchell and John Henry Taylor ended due to Mitchell’s failing health.

The chamberstick, was meant to light the way to your bedroom in the days before electricity. It was also frequently used for some late-night reading before slumber takes hold. Placed on a side table or held aloft in the night, like a scene out of a Dickens novel.

Base measures 4 ½” in width; candle holder portion stands 2 ½” tall.  Has folding ring handle. Shows some tarnish.  Maker marked “Mitchell & Tyler”; also has a touchmark but cannot make it out. Initials “E ^. E ^. M” on bottom.  An excellent piece, great for display.  [ld] [ph:L]

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