The freedom of a city is Ireland was traditionally awarded to notable figures as a measure of appreciation for acts or achievements, and was typically marked with a commerative box or item.

In this case, the Fredom of the city of Drogheda was awarded to Earl Talbot, the Governor General of Ireland, in 1818, for services to agriculture.

Born Charles Talbot, he was the eldest son of John Talbot and his wife, Charlotte. In 1812, Talbot was also appointed Lord-Lieutenant of Ireland, then the highest ranking official in the country.

Although an opponent of Catholic Emancipation, Talbot was given credit for his impartiality and Lord Cloncurry called him 'an honourable, high-minded gentleman'. However, the growing discontent in Ireland under Talbot's administration, forced the British Government have him replaced with Lord Wellesley in December 1821.

The box is made in silver gilt, with three colour gold decoration, the lid is chased and engraved with the arms of Drogheda, and the motto "Deus Proesidium Mercatura Decus" (God our Strength, Merchandise our Glory), the motto of Drogheda, and is hallmarked under the lid.

The base of the box is beautifully engraved "To HIs Excellency Charles Chetwynd Earl Talbot Lord Lieutenant General and General Governor of Ireland The Freedom of the Corporation of Drogheda is herein most respectfully presented by The Mayor, Sheriffs, Aldermen and Common Council Pursuant to their unanimous vote on the 11th day of June 1818 in Testimony of the high esteem they entertain of his public and private virtues".

The form of this box was is very typical of the fashion of the era.