Marvelous 1850s Pennsylvania Folk Art Stool with Carved Stars in Old Green Paint (and family note attached)

I do believe my favorite stool I've ever had, and stools are one of my very favorite things. I purchased this one from Stephen Corrigan (Stephen Douglas antiques), from whom I have purchased many of my very favorite things. Those stars! -- one deeply carved inside of a circle at either end and then a third larger, spindly one at center--and then this incredible green painted surface, perhaps sponged, I don't even know how to describe it but it's incredible. Plus two perfectly imperfect rows of fat hand-forged iron nails running across the face, connecting the legs. Finally, a hand-written note adhered to the underside, declaring it as a piece of "German folk art made by Craig's great grandmother's father", and "valuable"! Indeed! Be still my heart. I'd be especially glad to keep this one.  12" l x 5 3/4" w x 5 1/2" t. Beautiful, and in good structural condition. Some paint loss along the front edge on both sides, as documented. Seems sturdy and sound but I don't think I'd put a whole l