English, c. 1770s, reconstructed from sherds found during Neilson House archeology in 1940. This handleless teacup made of glazed refined earthenware was made in the Staffordshire District of England in the 1770s. Known as “creamware” for its creamy white color, table wares including cups like this one were popular in America. In August 1777, the John Neilson family packed their possessions and evacuated their home, as armies drew closer. In September and October 1777, four American officers: Benedict Arnold, Enoch Poor, Matthew Clarkson, and Henry Brockholst Livingston, and servants, occupied the Neilson House. While the Neilson family could have owned and used this teacup, it is also possible that one of the officers who were at the house in 1777 used it. An identical cup was found at Fort Stanwix. Both indicate the popularity and availability of this type of ceramic ware in New York during the time of the American Revolution.
Collection: Saratoga National Historical Park, SARA 931.
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