This genuine vintage Wilton cast iron black dinner bell with yoke & base comes from a small 4th generation family owned farm just outside of Burlington, Vermont. We did not see this letter ourselves, however we have no reason to doubt the claim as the date is in line with the company’s operational timeframe. The bell was mounted on a post right off the porch and was used daily to call everyone in for supper time. The bell & yoke were removed in 2005 during renovations to the original farmhouse, built by hand in approximately 1884, and stored in the barn until recently. The bell swings with ease and sounds amazing! Absolutely no cracks or rust on the bell. All it needs is a fresh coat of paint. The unit stands on its own due to the square base or can be mounted (mounting hardware not included), giving a vast range of placement options. Mount it outside or use it as indoor home decor on a shelf, table, or desk. Either way, this beautiful piece of Vermont history will add a touch of old New England country charm no matter where it’s placed. Entire Unit – 17″ x 12″ x 9. Bell – 9″ x 9″ x 8. Yoke & Base – 17″ x 12″. Eagle – 3″ x 2″. In 1892, this company originally began as “Susquehanna Castings” by the Wilton Family. It was located in Wrightsville, PA, along the Susquehanna River It was also right across the street from the Wilton family lime kiln company known as “Stacy Wilton Lime Company” The origin date of Wilton Products is unknown but believed to be approximately 1935. Susquehanna Castings made the iron products and Wilton Products decorated them. After that the Wilton family, presided over by Mr. Ralph (Bud) Wilton, Jr. Started the newly formed company, Wliton Products, and produced “Painted Iron” objects for industry and consumers. Wilton fabricated his figures in cast iron untill 1964 when he developed a separate company whose products were based on an aluminum alloy called “Armetale”. In 1969 Wilton moved to Mount Joy, Pa. And were bought out by John Wright in the same year. MARKING STYLE : Lettering on the back.