St. Simons Island in Glynn County, Georgia — The American South (South Atlantic)
Frederica - Candlemaker
Photographed By Mike Stroud, May 10, 2009
1. Frederica - Candlemaker Marker
John Calwell, the candlemaker, " had built lately a large house of three storied high which was looked on to be the best in town, with storehouses, etc. for carrying on the trade..." Journal of William Stephens June 25, 1745
During its short history, Frederica's residents engaged in a variety of occupations. There were literally "butchers, bakers and candlestick makers." At this site John Calwell and his family made candles and soap fine enough to export to Pennsylvania and New York.
Calwell, like other Frederica residents, worked at more than one trade or profession. He was also a travelling merchant, shopkeeper, surveyor, bailiff, and "Conservator of the Peace."
The Calwell House was one of the best in town, with thick walls made of tabby, an oyster shell concrete visible in the foundation ruins. The remains of the baking oven and two fireplaces can also be seen.
Erected by National Park Service.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Colonial Era • Settlements & Settlers. A significant historical date for this entry is June 25, 1745.
Location. 31° 13.429′ N, 81° 23.482′ W. Marker is on St. Simons Island, Georgia, in Glynn County. Marker can be reached from Frederica Drive
this page online
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. Frederica — Carpenter and Oarmaker (a few steps from this marker); Frederica — Destroyed by Fire (within shouting distance of this marker); Frederica - Indian Interpreter (within shouting distance of this marker); Patrick and Priscilla Houstoun (within shouting distance of this marker); A New House? (within shouting distance of this marker); Five Years at Frederica (within shouting distance of this marker); Frederica — Tavernkeeper and Doctor (within shouting distance of this marker); Tavernkeepers (within shouting distance of this marker). Touch for a list and map of all markers in St. Simons Island.
Regarding Frederica - Candlemaker. Wayside drawings on the exhibits are artist's
conceptions based on available information.
Photographed By National Park Service, May 10, 2009
2. Frederica - Candlemaker Marker
Artist's concept of the Calwell House
(at bottom) Candles were made by pouring melted animal fat, or tallow, into molds strung with wicks.
(at bottom) Candles were made by pouring melted animal fat, or tallow, into molds strung with wicks.
Photographed By Mike Stroud, May 10, 2009
3. Frederica - Candlemaker ruins, oven and fireplaces
Credits. This page was last revised on November 23, 2020. It was originally submitted on May 12, 2009, by Mike Stroud of Bluffton, South Carolina. This page has been viewed 666 times since then and 19 times this year. Photos: 1, 2, 3. submitted on May 12, 2009, by Mike Stroud of Bluffton, South Carolina. • Craig Swain was the editor who published this page.
