Tinware

Tinware containers for household use have been made in America since the seventeenth century. The first tin utensils were brought from Europe, but by 1798, tin plate was imported and local tinsmiths made the wares. Painted tin is called tole and is listed separately. Punched tin, unpainted tinware with punched decorations, dates from 1930 to 1860. Some tin kitchen items may be found listed under Kitchen. The lithographed tin containers used to hold food and tobacco are listed in the Advertising category under Tin. For more information, explore our tinware and toleware identification guides.