Welcome to Danforth Pewter—Middlebury’s best-kept secret for heirloom-quality metalwork infused with the heart and soul of its makers. Nestled in a lovingly restored mill on Main Street, our workshop is a warm knot of stories and skill, where John Danforth and Emily Thompson (along with our spirited apprentices, Mark Ellis and Sarah Cook) turn molten pewter into functional art you’ll cherish for generations.

Walk through our carved-oak door and you’re greeted by the comforting hum of the forge fan and the soft patter of hammers shaping glowing metal. Around you, antique molds line the walls—each one a relic of times when craftsmanship was measured in hours at the anvil, not clicks of a mouse. Sunlight filters through tall windows onto display cases brimming with goblets, platters, lanterns, and keepsakes, each bearing the quiet fingerprints of the hand that made it.

But Danforth Pewter is more than a gallery; it’s a place of collaboration. Have an idea? Whether you’re dreaming of a custom-engraved tankard to celebrate a wedding, a family crest etched into a serving tray for holiday feasts, or a one-of-a-kind gift that whispers “you’re special,” we’ll work with you from first sketch to final polish. We source all our pewter responsibly, and Emily personally tests each pour to guarantee that perfect balance of luster and strength.

Beyond our craftsmanship, what truly sets us apart is the connections we forge. You might find John swapping local legends with your grandparents, Emily coaching Mark through the finer points of mold-carving, or Sarah sharing a fresh cup of coffee as she files the last burr from a pendant. We believe that every piece should carry a trace of its maker’s personality—and a spark of your own story.

Whether you’re a lifelong collector of handmade wares or simply curious about where tradition meets invention, Danforth Pewter is your haven. Stop by our mill at 45 Main Street, Middlebury, Monday through Saturday, and take home more than an object—you’ll bring home a conversation starter, a family heirloom in the making, and a memory of a shared moment in a light-filled workshop. We can’t wait to welcome you, learn about your ideas, and craft something truly unforgettable together.