The wooden box, now empty, was once filled with many 1 inch square wooden cubes, the purpose of which was to provide development of fine motor control in kindergartners through their play and manipulation. This box represents one of a series of "gifts" produced by J.L. Hammett designed for use in schools for the above stated purpose.

The box is in very good condition with subtle evidence of use and measures 4 inches in length, width and height.

Text indicates that the diploma was awarded to Mary L. Downey on January 15, 1892, and certified her to teach the Grammar or Primary Grade for the subsequent 6 years. Signed by 5 members of the California State Board of Education.

Further documentation on reverse reads, "Issued on the recommendation of the Board of Education of San Francisco, in accordance with Section 1521 of the Political Code, upon a first grade or Grammar Grade Certificate of San Francisco, 86.7% (Mary’s test grade).”

With the exception of early fold lines, condition is mint! Measures 8 inches X 10.5 inches.

Hardcover, 454 pages; very fine condition: no foxing, tight binding, corner edge wear to covers, pencil inscription on frontispiece, dirt stain to exterior edge of book pages visible when book is closed- does not penetrate pages.

The sign is silver foil, reverse-painted on decorative, hand-chipped glass that has been protectively backed in metal. The sign has two hanging holes at the top from which a wire has been affixed to allow hanging.

Featuring a double heart motif, the advertising slogan spouts, "When Two Hearts Beat As One, It's Time To Buy Your Furniture From "Old Reliable" Petersburg Furniture Company.

Metal backed, with 2 metal legs to allow the sign to stand freely, the sign is constructed of decorative, scallop-edged, hand-chipped glass with silver foil, reverse-painted embellishments.

Photo condition is wonderful- no rips or creases. Original mat board has seen much handling with rough edges and rips. This can be remedied through re-matting and re-framing. The full view photo appears faded or lighter on the right hand side, but this is camera flash glare only- tones/coloration are uniform throughout as seen in close-up photo.

It is hand-painted and is free-standing, so it will make a great shelf display piece! It was once propped up in a window of a Virginia country store.

They were hand-inscribed by two different teachers and presented to two brothers-- Willie and Decatur Gotts.

All four are in pristine condition and feature 4 different designs.