Original Early American Iron Flintlock Tinder Lighter with Plaque Engraved to Sun Inn, Bethlehem PA – Still in Existence Original Items

Original Item: One of a Kind. Purchased in Allentown some time, ago this old tinder lighter has plainly laid in a barn or out house for many years and is pitted overall. Complete with a candle stand on the left side, the moving parts are all exposed on the right hand face of an enclosed compartment intended to store one’s “tinder”. These were first used as fire lighters by the flint striking a spark on the frizzen, which ignited the “tinder” in the trough or pan below. Tinder was usually fine shards of cotton or similar which was easily set afire with a spark. Once ignited the pan’s now burning tinder was tipped into the laid fireplace to soon burst into a good blaze.

This example is relatively crude in manufacture, almost certainly locally made during the Pre-Revolutionary era, complete with a wood grip in the characteristic style. It is supported to the front by what appears to be a wrought iron permanently attached bipod. It has a brass plaque on the wrist of the stock, which is inlaid interestingly in the shape of a Brown Bess escutcheon but of course much smaller. Functions well, holds on half cock *but fires from half cock, holds on full cock and sparks. It is is quite finely engraved with a sun at the top. over:

SUN INN
Bethlehem
Pa.

A very interesting piece of pre Revolutionary War History from an establishment still existing. Unfortunately the Sun Inn, first opened in 1758, is now a well known Tourist Trap completely commercialized, geared to modern living.

Probably dating from the very early days before the U.S. Revolutionary war. A fascinating item well worth serious research, in very nice condition for 250 years of age.

Specifications:
Years of Manufacture: circa 1770
Caliber: n/a
Ammunition Type: Powder & Tinder
Overall Length:  7″
Action: Flintlock box lock

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