Armetale metal cup wider at top, tapers to 2 inches at base. Band of 3 lines beginning .75" from the top. Round design with "1776-1976" above the state of PA with a Liberty Bell and an atom impressed. Circling below the state is "Pennsylvania Bicentennial" with a keystone between the words. Three stamps near the top edge in black: One is in an oval; "RWP" in a circle; and a "C" in a circle.
Hammer head of nickel-plated steel with highly polished surface, handle missing. Elongated form has both ends tapering down from a central swell. Corners are chamfered. Both ends of hammer head have a flattened face with faceted edges. At center of bottom is an open socket for handle with a metal wedge mounted inside. Sole decoration is an incised diamond centered at both top and bottom.
Used for the destruction of the Shober Stables to build the YMCA.
In 1896, this hammer was auctioned off by the YMCA to the highest bidder for the ceremonial privilege of striking the first blows for the demolition of the old Shober stables. C.G. Schuberth bid $105 to win the privilege. (Charles Schuberth was the proprietor of Lancaster Steam Laundry at 146 E. King St.) The YMCA board had decided on March 14, 1896 to remove the sheds in preparation for erecting a new building on a site at North Queen and Orange Sts., Groundbreaking took place on April 22, 1899.
Five commerative medals from 1976 bicentenial - 200th anniversary of meeting of continental congress in Lancaster, George Ross ( 1730-1779), Adam Hubley, Edward Hand, David Ramsay, William Henry - medals with board for display
