What was the wage of a cooper in colonial days?

In colonial America during the 17th and 18th centuries, coopers were skilled artisans who made wooden barrels, casks, and other vessels. The specific wages of coopers could vary depending on factors such as the region, the demand for their services, and the particular employment arrangement (e.g., working independently, for a master cooper, or in a larger workshop).

Here are some examples of wage rates for coopers during the colonial period:

- In the early 1700s, coopers in the Massachusetts Bay Colony earned an average of 2 shillings and 6 pence per day.

- In the mid-1700s, coopers in Philadelphia were reported to have earned around 3 shillings per day.

- In the late 1700s, coopers in Virginia could earn up to 5 shillings per day, depending on their skill level and experience.

It's worth noting that these are just a few examples, and wages could vary significantly across different locations and time periods. Additionally, coopers often worked on a piece-rate basis, meaning they were paid based on the number of items they produced rather than a fixed hourly or daily wage.

In general, coopers were considered skilled craftsmen and earned relatively good wages compared to unskilled workers during colonial times. However, it's important to remember that the overall standard of living and purchasing power of money were different in those times, and wages would need to be contextualized within the broader economic and social conditions of colonial America.