Gorham

Gorham Manufacturing Company was founded in Providence, Rhode Island, in 1831 and quickly became a leader in American silver production. They are most well-known for their hollowware and flatware patterns, although they have also won awards for silver furniture and sculpture while under the direction of William Christmas Codman in the early 20th century.

The company uses adventurous approaches to design, often incorporating many varieties of period styles into their wares. Through early efforts to mechanize production and by hiring multitudes of European craftsmen, Gorham launched in Providence as the premier silver manufacturing location in the country. From the late-19th to the mid-20th century, Gorham received numerous statewide and national commissions for flatware and services. Especially notable is their presence at the 1904 St. Louis World’s Fair, which generated American interest in the Art Nouveau Martelé line.

Gorham’s silver designs belong to collections throughout the world and have been used by major political figures over time, including the White House service first purchased by Mary Todd Lincoln. Gorham’s name today is synonymous with the American contribution to silver manufacture and design.