Hello,

In regards to this skep.  Looking at the unique
construction technique and immigration records, 
I have been able to narrow the skep design
to most likely being French influence.

Although the French have been settled in New 
Hampshire for hundreds of years,  large numbers 
of French-Canadian migrated to New Hampshire 
for economic reasons starting just prior to the Civil 
War to work in the textile mills.  

The French Canadians are known to 'hold fast' to their
traditions and language, -and skep making knowledge
would likely have been one of those skills held
fast, practiced and retained in their customs.  Poor 
immigrants, forced to migrate for economic reasons 
could least afford the latest patent hives which were 
widely available in America at that time.  This would 
necessitate that they resort to traditional methods 
to start up an apiary to provide additional income 
and sweets for the family.  

So this skep is perhaps Civil War era, or slightly later 
example of French-Canadian Skep, 1860's - 1870's.  
Furthermore, it would be very rare that this is a 
surviving example of early colonial French skep, 
due to the most fragile nature inherent of all skeps.

New Hampshire, French-Canadian Skep:
http://www.hudsonantiques.net/wideboard/2010/12/new-hampshire-bee-skep.html

Best Wishes,
J. Waggle
Historical Honeybee Articles

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