Wm. Rogers & Son Silver Plate Flatware in Arbutus Pattern
Flatware (Likely a Teaspoon or Luncheon Fork) · Wm. Rogers & Son, a secondary mark of the International Silver Company (Meriden, Connecticut). Established as an independent entity in 1865, it became one of the most prolific American silver plate brands known for durable, accessible household silver.
Pattern: Arbutus Pattern, introduced in 1910 by Wm. Rogers & Son. It is a discontinued floral/scroll design prevalent in early 20th-century households.
Type
Flatware (Likely a Teaspoon or Luncheon Fork)
Maker
Wm. Rogers & Son, a secondary mark of the International Silver Company (Meriden, Connecticut). Established as an independent entity in 1865, it became one of the most prolific American silver plate brands known for durable, accessible household silver.
Material
Silver Plate (Electroplated Nickel Silver). The base is a non-precious copper-nickel alloy plated with a thin layer of fine silver via electrolysis.
Dimensions
Standard flatware proportions (approx. 6-7 inches depending on specific piece type). Lightweight compared to sterling due to the nickel-silver base metal.
Description
This piece of American silver plate flatware represents the height of industrial-era silver accessibility. The Arbutus pattern features a charming arrangement of blossoms and flowing scrolls that once graced many American tables. As a Wm. Rogers & Son piece, it was marketed for its durability and 'silver-like' appearance at a fraction of the cost of solid sterling.
Key Features
The 1910 patent date stamp and the prominent Wm. Rogers & Son name, combined with the specific floral scroll motif of the Arbutus pattern.
Material & Composition
Silver Plate (Electroplated Nickel Silver). The base is a non-precious copper-nickel alloy plated with a thin layer of fine silver via electrolysis.
Finish & Decoration
Bright polish with floral and scrolling motifs along the handle borders. The pattern is typical of the Edwardian era, featuring delicate organic lines and recessed detailing meant to catch tarnish and create contrast.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Stamped 'PAT. JAN. 5,10' indicating the patent date (January 5, 1910). Followed by a maltese cross symbol and 'WM. ROGERS & SON'. The lack of a 'Sterling' mark confirms it is silver plated.
Construction Details
Machine-made utilizing die-striking techniques typical of 20th-century mass production. The decoration is stamped into the metal using high-pressure steel dies.
Functional Features
General-purpose flatware; the tapered handle provides balance for everyday dining use.
Handle & Grip Details
The handle is solid, composed of the same plated nickel-silver as the rest of the piece, with a slightly flared terminal and relief ornamentation.
Craftsmanship Details
Excellent industrial quality. While machine-made, the die-work is crisp, and the plating was originally thick enough to withstand decades of use.
Authentication Indicators
The markings are consistent with authentic International Silver Company production for the Wm. Rogers line. The typeface of the stamp and the maltese cross are standard for this brand.
Origin & Manufacturing
Manufactured in Meriden, Connecticut, USA, which was the 'Silver City' of the world during this period.
Era & Period
Edwardian/Early 20th Century (1910-1920). The pattern reflects the transition from Victorian heavy ornamentation to more refined floral designs.
Age Estimate
Produced between 1910 and approximately 1930. The 1910 patent date is the primary indicator of its earliest possible manufacture.
Cultural Significance
Represents the democratization of luxury in the early 1900s, allowing the burgeoning middle class to host formal dinners with uniform 'silver' services.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good. Visible heavy tarnish (sulfide deposits) and 'plate loss' or wear where the underlying base metal (yellowish/grey hue) may be showing through high-relief areas. Minor surface scratches from use.
Value Estimate
$2.00 - $8.00 per piece. Silver plate has low resale value compared to sterling, as it cannot be melted for bullion value. Value is primarily for replacement of lost set pieces.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a mild silver cream like Wright's. Avoid over-polishing or using abrasive 'dip' cleaners, as the silver layer is very thin and can be completely removed, exposing the base metal.
Similar Pieces
Rogers Bros 'Charter Oak', Gorham 'Chantilly' (Sterling version), or Oneida 'Community Plate' patterns. The key difference is the Rogers & Son stamp which identifies this specifically as the plated Arbutus pattern.
Interesting Facts
The 'Rogers' name was so valuable in the 19th century that dozens of silversmiths with that name (or who adopted it) fought for market share. Wm. Rogers & Son was one of the few legally recognized 'original' brands before being absorbed into International Silver.