The use of the wing feathers of birds and fowl to fashion writing implements was as familiar in the ancient world as it was in the early North American colonies. References to the quill pen occur as early as the 7th century A.D.  Craftsmen of the Middle Ages took advantage of the fine sharpness and flexibility of the quill nib in decorating the pages of their illuminated manuscripts. The Declaration of Independence was signed by patriots wielding quill pens. The quill pen remained preeminent until the1830’s, when developments in England led to the mass production of steel pen points. Our quill pens are made of the finest quality bleached white goose quills. The nib may be re-sharpened and re-shaped as often as necessary. (No. 83309)