Will Rogers State Park Cal. Commemorative Silver Plated Souvenir Spoon
Flatware - Souvenir Spoon · Manufactured by an American silverplate company, likely during the peak of the US souvenir spoon craze (late 19th to mid-20th century).
Pattern: Will Rogers State Park Commemorative Line, part of the popular American souvenir and commemorative spoon genre.
Type
Flatware - Souvenir Spoon
Maker
Manufactured by an American silverplate company, likely during the peak of the US souvenir spoon craze (late 19th to mid-20th century).
Material
Silver-plated base metal, typically nickel silver or electroplated white metal alloy (EPNS).
Dimensions
Standard souvenir teaspoon size, approximately 14 to 15 cm (5.5 to 6 inches) in length, weighing roughly 25 to 35 grams.
Description
An appealing American commemorative souvenir spoon dedicated to the beloved humorist and actor Will Rogers. The terminal features a detailed, raised relief depiction of Rogers, accompanied by a banner bearing his name, while the stem proudly spells out 'STATE PARK CAL.' in bold block letters. The bowl exhibits a warm, age-appropriate tarnish with highlights of bright silver showing through on high points. It is a wonderful piece of Americana and California roadside or park history.
Key Features
Dimensional relief portrait of Will Rogers at the terminal, explicit 'STATE PARK CAL' lettering on the stem, and classic souvenir spoon proportions.
Material & Composition
Silver-plated base metal, typically nickel silver or electroplated white metal alloy (EPNS).
Finish & Decoration
High-polished bowl with an oxidized/antiqued finish in the handle recesses to highlight the raised relief portrait of Will Rogers and the engraved text reading 'WILL ROGERS STATE PARK CAL'.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Typically stamped on the reverse with maker's marks or 'IS' / 'SILVERPLATED' designations common to American souvenir flatware makers.
Construction Details
Die-struck bowl and handle with relief-molded terminal depicting Will Rogers; cold-formed and assembled as a single standard souvenir flatware piece.
Functional Features
Standard commemorative souvenir spoon, intended primarily for display or collection rather than active table service.
Handle & Grip Details
Flat, tapered handle with a pointed terminal featuring a dimensional relief bust of Will Rogers and clear block lettering along the stem.
Craftsmanship Details
Standard commercial die-stamping typical of souvenir flatware production, featuring clear relief detailing on the handle terminal and clean lettering alignment.
Authentication Indicators
Typical die-struck relief characteristics of mid-20th-century American souvenir spoons; crisp lettering and consistent patination appropriate for silver-plated nickel alloy.
Origin & Manufacturing
United States, produced for the tourist trade associated with the Will Rogers State Historic Park in California.
Era & Period
Mid-20th Century (Post-1944, as the Will Rogers State Historic Park in Pacific Palisades, California, was established after his death and the donation of his ranch in 1944).
Age Estimate
Circa 1945-1970, following the establishment of the California state park.
Cultural Significance
Reflects the mid-century American tradition of collecting souvenir spoons from national and state parks, roadside attractions, and historic sites.
Condition Notes
Very Good vintage condition. Moderate, attractive tarnish (patina) across the bowl and handle crevices. Minor surface micro-scratches consistent with age and gentle handling. Silver plating remains intact with no visible base metal breakthrough.
Value Estimate
$10 - $30 USD, depending on collector demand for Will Rogers memorabilia and state park ephemera.
Care & Maintenance
Clean gently with warm soapy water and a soft cloth. Use a mild silver-plated cleaner sparingly if tarnish reduction is desired, avoiding aggressive dips that can strip the oxidized finish in the relief recesses.
Similar Pieces
Other California state park souvenir spoons, Yosemite or Yellowstone commemorative spoons from manufacturers like Wm. Rogers or Oneida.
Interesting Facts
Will Rogers was one of the most famous multimedia celebrities of the 1920s and 1930s. After his tragic death in a 1935 plane crash, his ranch in Pacific Palisades, California, became a state park in 1944, inspiring various commemorative tourist items including spoons like this.