Thomas Apthorp's Whizzer

3D Model

Recovered by archaeologists in 2010 at Town Dock near Faneuil Hall, this “whizzer” bears the name of it’s owner Thomas Apthorp, who likely lost it in the mid-18th century. Made of lead and stamped with his name, the two holes in the center would have allowed a string to pass through, and when both sides were pulled tightly a “whizzing” sound would occur. Perhaps it could be considered a colonial fidget spinner! Archaeological evidence of children can be hard to come by, especially an item that has been personalized. Thomas was born in 1741 and was part of one of the wealthiest families in Boston who lived on what is now State Street. His family’s wealth and status likely afforded Thomas a personilized toy such as this, and we can imagine that when the string broke and his whizzer went flying, he spent a bit of time searching for it! Scanned by Nadia Kline.