DESCRIPTION: Gavel made of wood with carved inscriptions reading, "This wood is part of, The old capitol of, Penna erected 1819, Fire Feb 7 1897" on handle. "Areme Chapter No. 192. O.E.S." on head. "Sue P. Kehr 1918" and "W.M. 1918" at base of handle. PROVENANCE: Per the consignor, the gavel is made from wood debris salvaged after the fire. Designed by Stephen Hills, the first capitol building known now as, the "Hills Capitol," housed Pennsylvania's government from 1822 until its destruction by fire in 1897. MEASUREMENTS: 9-1/2" x 3" x 1-3/4". CONDITION: No defects noted.