July 4, 1873 Primitive Carved Fork cricket game The wood is darker and

The wood is darker and richer than details portray

with turned wood handles

I didn't know much at all about the history of "The Band of Hope" when I purchased this early 20th century hand-drawn postcard

what looks to be a little upside-down heart in pencil

nestled in its valley

July 4, 1873 Primitive Carved Fork cricket game The wood is darker andThe handwritten text on this sweetly carved wooden fork is a bit hard to read, particularly the year (and my photos don't help; it is somewhat clearer in person), but I'm pretty sure it says 1873. For sure the day is July 4, so Independence was certainly being celebrated as it was made, with the initials EJV and EAG I believe written below. Very humble but full of life. 5 9 16" x 13 16" and in very good condition.