MAYBERRY FAMILY SIGNED GOLDSMITH CHANDLEE, WINCHESTER, SHENANDOAH VALLEY OF VIRGINIA BRASS CIRCUMFERENTOR / SURVEYOR'S COMPASS, dial engraved with fleur de lys at north and star points at other directions, signed "G:CHANDLEE WINc" and "G:MAYBERRY." around southern edge flanking pole dial with outkeeper window, original glass, arms set with original screw-on sights. Retains original brass mounting swivel for top of staff. Reserve. Circa 1795. 8 1/2" HOA without swivel, 6" D dial, 14 3/4" L.
Literature: See Chandlee - Six Quaker Clockmakers, pp. 136, 137 for similar examples. For the latest scholarship on Chandlee see Hollan - Virginia Silversmiths, pp. 141-146.
Catalogue Note: Goldsmith Chandlee (1751-1821) was one of the most accomplished and notable makers of clocks and scientific instruments in America during the late 18th and early 19th centuries. He worked in Winchester from 1783 until his death in 1821. Roughly 22 of his surveyor's compasses are known today including examples at Colonial Williamsburg, Mount Vernon, and the Museum of the Shenandoah Valley.
The identity of "G:MAYBERRY" for whom this compass was made is thought to be George Mayberry (1760-1830), iron master of Shenandoah Co., Virginia. Mayberry was an owner and operator of the Columbia, Pine Forge, and Redwell Furnaces during the late 18th and early 19th centuries. A compass such as this would have been a valuable instrument employed for his purchases and rental of properties. He married Rebecca J. Pennybacker (1749-1827) of the well-established Pennybacker family of iron masters and they had 12 children.

Very good as-found condition, lacking one bezel screw to underside.