Images(6)

Buckle, Knee

Object number2001.11.1 a,b

Datec. 1780

MediumVelvet; Metal; Glass

Credit LineGift of Eleanor Wilson Stoltz and daughters

DescriptionRectangular metal knee buckle with twenty-six faceted glass stones forming outer border. Buckle is mounted on purple velvet.DimensionsHeight x Width x Depth: 2.25 × 5.375 × 0.25 in. (5.7 × 13.7 × 0.6 cm)
Historical NotesAccording to family history, this knee buckle was given to Stephen Bayard, an American officer stationed at Fort Pitt during the American Revolution, by George Washington, the original owner. A knee buckle was used on a garter-like strap to hold up a man’s stockings. Washington may have given the buckle to Bayard while traveling through the region sometime after the war since the style of the buckle is more typical of the 1780s and 1790s. The national worship of Washington during the nineteenth century made such objects associated with him treasured heirlooms that were frequently passed down through generations, like the knee buckle, which descended through the female line of the family. Label TextAfter George Washington’s death, souvenirs and mementos of the celebrated figure were eagerly sought. Jewelry containing Washington memorabilia offered a way to show publicly one’s mourning for the deceased hero. A highly prized lock of Washington’s hair and his portrait were incorporated in one locket. A funeral medal struck only weeks after his death was placed in another, along with a miniature of a doleful female figure. Some articles associated with Washington became revered heirlooms. According to family history, Washington gave this knee buckle to Stephen Bayard, an American officer at Fort Pitt and early landowner in Elizabeth, Pennsylvania, during one of his visits to the region. The knee buckle passed to Bayard’s daughter and on down through the female line.

Previous owner Stephen Bayard

Related person George Washington (American, 1732 - 1799)

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