Peter Bentzon (silversmith) facts for kids

Peter Bentzon (born around 1783 – died around 1850) was a very talented silversmith from the Danish West Indies. He became an American master silversmith. What makes him special is that he is the only early American silversmith of African ancestry whose beautiful silver creations have been clearly identified. He always marked his work with his name.

Peter Bentzon's Life Story

Peter Bentzon was born around 1783 in the Danish West Indies, which is now Saint Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands. He was born as a free person, meaning he was never enslaved. His mother had a mixed background of African and European heritage, and his father was white. Because he had a lighter skin tone, he had more chances and was able to meet more people in society during his time.

Learning to Be a Silversmith

Around 1791, Peter Bentzon began his training to become a silversmith. This type of training is called an apprenticeship. He learned his skills in two places: first in Saint Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands, and then in Philadelphia. After a few years of hard work and learning, he was ready to open his very own silver shop in Philadelphia.

Where to See His Work

Today, you can find Peter Bentzon's amazing silver pieces in many public museum collections. These include:

• The Philadelphia Museum of Art
• The National Museum of African American History and Culture
• The Saint Louis Art Museum
• The Seattle Art Museum
• The Colonial Williamsburg Foundation
• The African American Museum in Dallas
• The Krannert Art Museum
• The Winterthur Museum