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This ladle was used to scoop buttermilk out of a churn when making butter. It is made from one piece of wood, and has a handle which curves backwards and has a knob on the end to facilitate a good grip. It was originally owned by a farmer from Westgate in the Weardale area of County Durham.

1 buttermilk scoop: box wood; fair condition- repaired

MERL ‘History Artefacts’ card – 'Description: This scoop or ladle is fashioned from one piece of wood and has a handle which curves backwards and has a knob on the end to facilitate a good grip. // Use: For scooping buttermilk from the churn. // History: Old men in the Weardale area remember the use of this type of ladle. // Conservation: none', MERL ‘Associated information’ form – '"Given to Mr Newrick originally by a farmer of Westgate in Weardale. Presumed local. // Old men in the area remember the use of this type of ladle." // A clean break across the bowl when Mr Newrick acquired it. // [pencil sketch]'

Scoop, buttermilk, Ladle