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Interpreting the Evidence

Blacksmith Receipt for Work Done for Jeremias Van Rensselaer, June 1674

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About this Activity

  • Documents in this Activity:
  • Historical Eras:

    Colonial America (1630s - 1760)

  • Thinking Skill:

    Historical Analysis & Interpretation

  • Grade Level:

    Middle School
    High School
    College University

  • Topics:

    Colonial America
    Dutch
    Industry
    Labor

  • Primary Source Types:

    Written Document

  • Regions:

    Capital District
    New York State

  • Creator:

    NYS Archives Partnership Trust Education Team.

  1. Load Blacksmith Receipt for Work Done for Jeremias Van Rensselaer, June 1674 in Main Document Viewer
  2. Load Blacksmith Receipt for Work Done for Jeremias Van Rensselaer, June 1674 in Main Document Viewer

Suggested Teaching Instructions

Document Description
Receipt for work done by the blacksmith for Jeremias Van Rensselaer, June 1674.
Historical Context
Blacksmiths played a key role in the development and success of colonial communities. Blacksmiths were responsible for producing most iron objects like horse shoes, hinges, locks, nails, and keys. In addition to production, these metal workers also were hired to repair items like wagons and sleighs. Individuals learned the blacksmith trade through apprenticeships which they entered into in their early teenage years.
 
Essential Question
How did blacksmiths contribute to the growth and success of the colony?
 
Check for Understanding
Using the document describe, in a diary format, the average work day of an apprentice in a blacksmith’s shop. Using the document describe approximately how much money a blacksmith made for his trade.  Compare whether his contribution to the colony was worth more or less in contrast to his approximate income.
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