F.B. Rogers Silver Co. Footed Creamer or Sugar Bowl in Silver Plate
Tea Service / Hollowware · F.B. Rogers Silver Company. Founded in Shelburne Falls, MA in 1883 and later moved to Taunton, MA. In 1955, it became a division of National Silver Co. They were prolific manufacturers of affordable silver-plated hollowware.
Pattern: Non-specific traditional pattern. F.B. Rogers produced many variations of fluted and footed designs that emulated Georgian and Victorian styles without unique names.
Type
Tea Service / Hollowware
Maker
F.B. Rogers Silver Company. Founded in Shelburne Falls, MA in 1883 and later moved to Taunton, MA. In 1955, it became a division of National Silver Co. They were prolific manufacturers of affordable silver-plated hollowware.
Material
Silver Plate on white metal or copper. The 'F.B. ROGERS' stamp without 'Sterling' signifies electroplated nickel silver (EPNS) or a similar base metal alloy.
Dimensions
Approximately 4-5 inches in diameter at the base. Estimated weight is 200-350 grams. This size is consistent with an individual creamer or a standard open sugar bowl.
Description
This is a classic American silver-plated vessel featuring a globular, fluted body supported by four scroll-style feet. It represents the mid-century's affinity for traditional dining aesthetics, manufactured for the broad middle-market rather than the luxury sterling market.
Key Features
Four-footed pedestal base, cast scroll handle, and the distinctive F.B. Rogers block-letter stamp on the recessed bottom.
Material & Composition
Silver Plate on white metal or copper. The 'F.B. ROGERS' stamp without 'Sterling' signifies electroplated nickel silver (EPNS) or a similar base metal alloy.
Finish & Decoration
Polished silver plate with four cast decorative feet. The body appears to have a lobed or melon-style fluted design, popular in neo-Victorian aesthetics.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Stamped 'F.B. ROGERS' and 'U.S.A.' in block letters. Faint markings above 'U.S.A.' likely represent the numeric item code or the company's trademark (frequently a crown or a wagon wheel). No '925' or 'Sterling' marks are present.
Construction Details
Machine-made and mass-produced. The body is likely spun or die-formed, while the four-footed base is cast and soldered to the main bowl.
Functional Features
Includes a footed base for stability and heat protection of wooden surfaces. One visible handle suggests it is part of a creaming/sugaring set.
Handle & Grip Details
Cast silver-plated handle with a scroll thumb rest, soldered to the rim and body of the vessel.
Craftsmanship Details
Functional, industrial-grade craftsmanship. The solder joints are clean but visible upon close inspection, and the decorative elements are cast from standard molds used across many product lines.
Authentication Indicators
Authentic F.B. Rogers plate. The absence of the word 'Sterling' is the primary indicator that this is a silver-plated item rather than solid silver.
Origin & Manufacturing
United States, likely Taunton, Massachusetts. F.B. Rogers was a major employer in the Massachusetts silver district.
Era & Period
Mid-20th Century (1940s-1970s). While the style is Victorian Revival, the simplified stamping and construction are indicative of mid-century mass production.
Age Estimate
Circa 1950-1970. The clear 'U.S.A.' block stamp and the wear pattern on the plated base suggest an item from the peak of American household silver plate production.
Cultural Significance
A symbol of 'everyday elegance' in mid-century American households, where formal entertaining using silver-plated services was a staple of social etiquette.
Condition Notes
Good vintage condition. Visible surface scratches and significant tarnish (patina) on the base. Some 'bleeding' (copper or base metal showing through) may be present on the high points of the feet due to over-polishing.
Value Estimate
Market value is $10.00 - $25.00 USD. Silver-plated hollowware from mass-market makers like F.B. Rogers has high utility value but low investment value.
Care & Maintenance
Wash in warm soapy water. Use a non-abrasive silver cream (like Wright's) only when necessary, as harsh chemicals or silver dips can strip the thin layer of plating off the base metal.
Similar Pieces
Similar items by Sheridan, Leonard, or Gorham’s silver-plated lines. Gorham pieces will typically carry the 'Anchor' mark, and high-end pieces will be solid sterling.
Interesting Facts
F.B. Rogers pieces were frequently sold in department stores and used as wedding gifts throughout the mid-20th century, making them one of the most common finds in American antique shops today.