Thomas Danforth II

Thomas Danforth II was born 2 June 1731 in Taunton, Massachusetts. He was the son of Thomas Danforth I (1703-1786) and Sarah Leonard. He apprenticed as a pewterer in the shop of his father in Norwich, Connecticut, then opened his own shop in Middletown, Connecticut. In 1756, Thomas II married Martha Jacobs. They had at least six children: Thomas III (1756-1840); Joseph (1758-1788); Edward (1765-1791); William (1769-1820); Samuel (1774-1816); and Sarah (Mrs. Oliver Boardman). Not only were all five sons pewterers, but Sarah Danforth Boardman had at least three sons who were pewterers: Thomas Danforth Boardman (1784-1873); Sherman Boardman (1787-1861); and Timothy Boardman (d. about 1824).

Thomas Danforth II manufactured musquet balls for the Continental Army during the American Revolution. For over twenty years, he served as the sealer of weights and measures for Middletown. He held that post up until his death on 8 August 1782.

"During the war of Independence, he was commissioned to provide lead for bullets of the Continental Army. Practically all of his pewter is pre-revolutionary. " Guide to American Pewter by Carl Jacobs 1957

Working Dates: 1755-1782