Punch ladle

Maker’s mark: “DG” Dumfries town marks: unicorn’s head, fouled anchor   The inscription reads, “Presented by Brother John Robertson in 1815, Late Master and one of the Constituting members of the Annan Caledonian Lodge as a mark of esteem for that body.”   Some historians believe British sailors brought the custom of making punch back from India in the 1500s.  The name comes from the Hindustani word for "five" referring to the five ingredients of the beverage, which were sweet, sour, bitter, weak, and alcoholic.  The drink became popular at club meetings and other formal gatherings.