Family Silver in American Life

Silver played an increasingly important role in American life from the Colonial period until well into the 20^th century. Always a luxury item for colonists, it became more prevalent after the rise of the middle class in the 19^th century. The discovery of the Comstock Lode near Virginia City, NV, in 1859 provided an abundant source of silver. Primarily used for coinage and to make expensive utilitarian wares, decorative arts, and jewelry, it was also the chosen metal for presentation objects commissioned to recognize a wide range of events from birth to death. Most family silver pieces were originally engraved with the owner’s initials or names, and some pieces bear the names of successive owners, becoming treasured family heirlooms.  

The presentation will explore common silver forms, including a chronology of spoons (the most common item produced by early silversmiths), evolving engraving styles on family silver, presentation silver, and the silversmith in the community. Attendees are invited to bring silver pieces to share or for identification.

This program is in partnership with the Carroll County Genealogical Society.