In order to satisfy creditors in what was commonly a debt-ridden society, an inventory was taken of the real and personal estate and values were assigned each item at the death of the head of the household. Those completing the inventory customarily walked from room to room, recording every item. Mrs. Esther Williams (1726-1800) was the second wife and widow of Dr. Thomas Williams (1718-1775) of Deerfield, Massachusetts. The first page of this inventory provides a modern reader with a vicarious view of the equipment in her kitchen at the time of the inventory.
Mrs. Esther Williams’ inventory. 1800. Pocumtuck Valley Memorial Association, American Centuries. https://americancenturies.org/collection/l99-066/. Accessed on October 16, 2024.
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