Gorham Manufacturing Company, manufacturer

Although this service’s design pattern was conceived circa 1859 and acquired by Mary Lincoln for the White House in 1861, this particular service was made during the Great Depression, when Gorham launched an innovative program to keep their silversmiths employed, maintain traditional silversmithing skills in the face of modern design, and recreate examples of their most important work for future generations.

Gorham was the first American silver company to employ mechanization in their production, thus securing the company’s success. In 1852 Gorham ordered the first steam-powered press made to stamp flatware; the first pattern the press produced was Josephine, which was also owned by President and Mrs. Lincoln. Not only had Gorham made their mark in the industry, but they also garnered cultural status with important commissions and clients.