Before Glass was Affordable

A half Gill or half Jill measure, originally for rum.

Glass did not appear on the average table until close to the end of the first quarter of the nineteenth century. Glass could be had if one could afford it, for the merchant who sold “crockery” also sold glassware, which like his earthenware generally came from England or perhaps Ireland. “. . . Pint and half pint tumblers, Wine Glasses, Goblets, Vinegars, cut and common Salts, glass pint Mugs, Bird fountains, Inks, Mustards, Smelling Bottles, Proof Vials, Jill, and half Jill Tumblers, Butter Coolers, &c.” ran a Hartford ad of 1790 which also listed a large supply of “blue and white and cream coulor'd.” But glass was much more expensive. — From “Customs on the Table Top: How New England housewives set out their tables,” by Helen Sprackling, 1958

What were “Jill, and half Jill Tumblers”?

 Jack and Gill (pronounced "Jill") cups have been used since the 14th century to accurately measure liquids - often wine and spirits.

It is reported that, in an attempt to increase tax revenue, Charles I reduced the size of the 2 oz Jack and consequently the 4 oz Gill came tumbling after, so the rhyme goes. This cup is a reproduction of an original cup of the reduced size. This Gill Cup is handcrafted by redsmith Peter Goebel. Tin-lined and food safe, it measures 2" tall x 2" diameter and holds approximately 3 oz.

From the writings of George Washington, July 3, 1782 "Tomorrow being the anniversary of the Declaration of Independence...the Army is to be served an Extra gill of rum per man on this joyful occasion". A gill (pronounced "Jill") of rum, or a half-cup, was the standard daily ration for soldiers and sailors alike during the Revolutionary War. The rum ration remained in effect for the British Navy all the way up to July 31, 1970. – From Townsends.US

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