Newel Post from Lightfoot House

Dateca.1750-1775

OriginAmerica, Virginia, Williamsburg, Lightfoot House

MediumTulip poplar; Paint; Iron

Dimensions3 5/8" x 3 5/8" x 3' 2"

Object numberAF-3.10.2

DescriptionThis square-shaped, tulip poplar newel has ghosting on two faces from applied half-balusters suggesting it was situated on a landing or top of a stair. There are mortises on the faces where the balusters had been attached. Fragments of tenons and tenon pegs survive in the mortises. There is a ghost mark of a stringboard at the bottom suggests it was from a closed stringer stair. There are multiple surviving wrought iron brads on the post. The red-brown "graining" finish was most likely applied in the 19th century. It is unpainted where the handrail was attached.
Inscription(s)Paper tag thumbtacked to face on shadow of half-baluster: [BUILDING] "Allen-Byrd"