Middletown Plate Company design catalogues and historical documentation

Marks, patents, advertisements & more concerning the design legacy.

ADC staff
artdesigncafé - design | Design Meriden | 16 May 2016 | Updated 28 December 2021
LINK: Middletown Plate Co. designs in collections, at auction, and in exhibitions

The Middletown Plate Company joined the International Silver Co. in 1899. Some of the original staff then formed a new company called the Middletown Silver Company.

Middletown Plate Co punch bowl and cups


Above, illustration of Middletown Plate Co. punch bowl and cups (c. 1876) in Souvenir of the Centennial Exhibition: Connecticut’s representation at Philadelphia, (p. 108). See below for listing.


"MIDDLETOWN PLATE CO., Middletown, Conn.
This business was started in 1864 by Edward Payne and Henry Bullard, making Britannia and plated ware under the name of Payne. It was part of the original group that formed International Silver Co. In 1899, the operation was moved to Meriden and merged with the Meriden Britannia Co. Employees who chose not to go to Meriden organized the Middletown Silver Co., which was bough eventually by R. Wallace & Sons, Wallingford, Connecticut.

Middletown had a secondary trademark, Superior Silver Co., which was used on a less expensive line by Wilcox Silver Plate Co., until 1941. The Middletown Plate Co. trademark was also continued by International Silver until 1921."

— Edmund P. Hogan in An American heritage: A book about the International Silver Company (1977), pp. 167-68. (See entry below.)


Often confused with the Middletown Plate Company, the Middletown Silver Company was a separate entity that formed in 1899 after the former was acquired by the International Silver Company and its production moved to Meriden.


Middletown Plate Company (Middletown, CT) design catalogues and historical information (by year) [1]


Middletown Plate Co.; other trademark: Superior Silver Co. (definitive listing here, in process.)


Material status: = online
= link to more info
= completely offline


1860s

Various newspapers, magazines and other sources

(c. 1864-). Various newspapers, magazines and other sources - search engines. (Updated 26 April 2020. C01285; C01289; D01213).

Various newspapers based in Middletown, CT

(c. 1864-). Various newspapers: Constitution, Sentinel and Witness, Middletown Daily Constitution, Middletown Daily Sentinel, Middletown Tribune, Middletown Sun, Middletown Times, Penny Press, Evening Press, and Middletown Press. (Viewed 2 June 2018.)

1868 - classified advertisement

Middletown Plate Co. (8 May 1868). Classified advertisement: "Salesman wanted— An experienced salesman to travel and sell by sample our silver-plated ware. Middletown Plate Co, Middletown, Conn." New York Tribune, p. 11, col. 5. (Viewed 18 September 2018. B00318).

1868 - classified advertisement

(27 December 1868). Classified advertisement: "Wanted— A designer of silver ware, tea sets, pitchers, etc. Apply to Middletown Plate Company, Middletown, Conn." New York Herald, p. 11, col. 4. (Viewed 24 April 2020. C01222).

1868 - patent - improvement in ice-pitchers

Robert Holmes, assignor to Middletown Plate Company. (14 April 1868). Letters patent no. 76,761: Improvement in ice-pitchers. (Viewed 13 March 2018. AAA01112.)



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1870s

1871 - classified advertisement

(11 August 1871). Classified advertisement: "Wanted— An experienced lathe burnisher on plated ware. Address Middletown Plate Co., Middletown, Conn." The Sun (New York), unknown page number, col. 3. (Viewed 24 April 2020. C01223).

  • Online - fultonhistory.com. (Search the archive, "New York NY Sun 1870 Nov-Aug 1871 Grayscale - 0975", and scroll down for the link.)


1873 articles

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1873 - news mention

(8 March 1873). Wilmington has a first-class hotel! The Clayton House [with mention: "The plated ware, of fine triple silver plate, manufactured by the Middletown Plate Company, was furnished by C. F. Randolph."] Delaware State Journal (Wilmington, Delaware), p. 2. (Viewed 18 September 2018. B00320-21).

1873 - news mention

(21 April 1873). The leading jewelry house; J. H. Colclazine in his new establishment [presumably in Indianapolis, IN, with mention: "His stock of silver plated ware is from the manufactories of... Middletown Plate Co. ... "]. The Evening News (Indianapolis, IN), presumably p. 4, col. 3. (Viewed 31 May 2020. H01885-87).



1873 advertisements

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1873 - advertisement

Tweddle Hall, Albany, NY. (September 1873). Advertisement: "... Silver Plated Ware suitable for wedding presents, manufactured by the Middletown Plate Co. ... " [with no illustrations]. Albany Morning Express (Albany, New York). (Viewed 31 May 2020. H01877-84).

  • Online - fultonhistory.com.
  • 13 September 1873, p. 1, col. 1. (Search the archive, "Albany NY Morning Express 1873 - 0790", and scroll down for the link.)
  • 16 September 1873, p. 1, col. 1. (Search the archive, "Albany NY Morning Express 1873 - 0798", and scroll down for the link.)
  • 19 September 1873, p. 1, col. 1. (Search the archive, "Albany NY Morning Express 1873 - 0810", and scroll down for the link.)
  • This advertisement also appeared on 20 September 1873, p. 1, col. 1; 22 September 1873, p. 1, col. 1; 25 September 1873, p. 1, col. 1; 26 September 1873, p. 1, col. 1; 27 September 1873, p. 1, col. 1.

1873 - classified advertisement

Middletown Plate Co. (23 September 1873). Classified advertisement: "WANTED— A man to work at engine turning and engraving of britannia metal. Address Middletown Plate Co., Middletown, Conn." The Sun (New York), unknown page number, col. 2. (Viewed 2 May 2020. H01293-94).

  • Online - fultonhistory.com. (Search the archive, "New York NY Sun 1873 Apr-Dec 1873 Grayscale - 0640", and scroll down for the link.)

1873 - two advertisements

Tweddle Hall Dollar Store, Albany, NY. (27 & 29 September 1873). Advertisements: "... Elegant designs in Silver Plated Ware suitable for Wedding Presents, Manufactured by the Middletown Plate Co. ... " [with no illustrations]. Hudson Daily Star (Hudson, New York). (Viewed 21 July 2020. L01786-87).

  • Online - fultonhistory.com.
  • 27 September 1873, presumably p. 3, col. 6. (Search the archive, "Hudson NY Daily Star 1873 - 0317", and scroll down for the link.)
  • 29 September 1873, presumably p. 3, col. 7. (Search the archive, "Hudson NY Daily Star 1873 - 0321", and scroll down for the link.)

1873 - advertisement

Wendell & Roberts, Albany, NY. (23 October 1873). Advertisement: "Grand combination... Middletown Plate Co. ... tea sets, casters, fruit stands, syrup cups, etc., ice sets, cake baskets, butter dishes, epergnes... " [with no illustrations]. Albany Journal (Albany, New York), p. 1, col. 8. (Viewed 31 May 2020. H01875-76).



1874 - state business directory listing

(1874). Listing: "Manufacturing Companies ... Middletown Plate Co.", (p. 219). In The Connecticut Business Directory for 1874. Briggs & Co.: Boston. (Viewed 18 October 2020. F01535; F01537.)

1874 - news mention

(6 March 1874). The courts [mention: "... Judgements... Judge Gary... Middletown Plate Company v. A. B. Van Cott; judgement, $236 ... " Chicago Daily Tribune (Illinois), p. 7, col. 2. (Viewed 20 July 2020. L01784-85).


1875 advertisements

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1875 - advertisement

(1875). Advertisement on page 7 (listed in "index to advertisements" on p. 12; advert not visible in the pdf). In Middletown City Directory for 1875-6. Fitzgerald & Dillon. (Viewed 20 October 2020. F01558-59).

1875 - advertisement

Wendell & Roberts, Albany, NY. (25 October 1875). Advertisement: " ... Middletown Plate Co. ... tea sets, casters, fruit stands, syrup cups, etc. ... " [with no illustrations]. Albany Journal (New York), p. 1, col. 7. (Viewed 22 August 2020. E01109-10).

1875 - advertisement

F. O. Bailey, Auctioneers, Portland, ME. (24 December 1875). Advertisement: "Peremptory Sale of a Manufacturer’s and Wholesale Dealer’s Stock of Triple Silver Plated Ware & Table Cutlery At Auction... Middletown Plate Company ..." [with no illustrations]. Portland Daily Press (Portland, Maine), presumably p. 3, col. 8. (Viewed 19 December 2021. Q01029).



1876 - book mention - Middletown Plate in Philadelphia exposition

Smith, Walter. (1876). The masterpieces of the Centennial International Exhibition illustrated, (v. 2, Industrial art) (exhibition dates: 10 May - 10 November 1876). (Middletown Plate Company, and illustration of punch bowl and goblets: pp. 207-09.) 548 pp. Philadelphia: Gebbie & Berrie. (Updated 25 May 2020. A00819-32.)

c. 1976 - book mention - Middletown Plate Co. in Centennial exhibition

Smith, Walter. (c. 1876). Regarding Middletown Plate Co. punch bowl and cups (pp. 207-08, with illustration). In Examples of household taste. [This text appears to be similar or the same as The masterpieces of the Centennial international exhibition but with a different title and publisher; exhibition dates: 10 May - 10 November 1876.] R. Worthington: New York. (Viewed 27 May 2020. H01716; H01727-28).

1876 - book mention - Middletown Plate in Philadelphia exposition

Sandhurst, Phillip T. (c. 1876). The great Centennial exhibition critically described and illustrated, (pp. 273-74: Middletown Plate Company, including illustration of silver swing-pitcher). [Exhibition dates: 10 May - 10 November 1876.] 566 pp. P. W. Ziegler & Co.: Philadelphia and Chicago. (Viewed 15 June 2016. A00833-39.)

1876 - two photographs of exhibit and design

Centennial Photographic Co. (1876). Two photos from 1876 Centennial Exhibition: Middletown Plate Company exhibit; Middletown Plate Company design (exhibition dates: 10 May - 10 November 1876). Albumen Prints. (Viewed 29 June 2018. A03008-09.)

1876 - book mention - Middletown Plate in Philadelphia exposition

(1877). Souvenir of the Centennial exhibition [1876]: Connecticut’s representation at Philadelphia (exhibition dates: 10 May - 10 November 1876). [Core section: pp 99-111; also see exhibits list: pp. 124-27; exhibitors including Middletown Plate Co., (p. 126: "Plated Goods", "silver-plated ware" (with illustrations of ornamental piece and punch bowl and cups, pp. 107-08)]. 380 pp. Geo. D. Curtis: Hartford, CT. (Viewed 27 June 2016. A00965-75.)

"a punch bowl set made by the Middletown Plate Company… was one of the gems of the Exhibition. Another beautiful work of art exhibited by the same company was a silver ornamental piece representing swans drawing upon a sea of glassy silver silver a sea shell. This work attracted general attention, and was a subject for illustration in many of the art publications." — pp. 106-07. (See excerpt above.)


1876 - book mention - Middletown Plate Co. in Centennial exhibition

(1876). Centennial Exhibition, IV. [with mention of Middletown Plate Co. and illustration of centerpiece]. In Art Journal, v. 2, (pp. 257-61). D. Appleton & Co. Publishers: New York. (Viewed 27 May 2020. H01729-33).


1876 articles

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1876 - news mention

(10 October 1876). Centennial Business Notes; Silver-Plated Wares. The Evening Post (New York), p. 2, col. 5. (Viewed 14 October 2018. B01054).

"The Middletown Plate Company, of Middletown, Conn., and 13 John street, this city, have a fine display of wares at the Centennial well worthy the attention of visitors. This company manufacture in addition to useful articles in plated goods many fine specimens of artistic work suited to the tastes and requirements of all classes of purchasers." (Excerpt in full from above.)


1876 - article mention - Middletown Plate Co. in Centennial exhibition

(July 1876). The century— its fruits and its festival (VI. in the main building) [on the Centennial, exhibition dates: 10 May - 10 November 1876]. Lippincott Magazine, (pp. 265-86). (Viewed 27 May 2020. H01743-49).

"... the britannia and plated-ware trade... has become quite a prominent industry in the United States... Middletown Plate Company have shelves filled with evidence that art has been mustered into this service. The forms are well-studied, and for the combination of elegance and adaptation to use these stalls are not excelled by anything in those of Europe... " (Excerpt from above, p. 20.)




1876 advertisements

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1876 - advertisement

Middletown Plate Co. (6 April 1876). Advertisement: "... Silver-Plated Ware. Elegant New Designs for sale by all the Principal Dealers. Factories, Middletown, Conn. Show-room, 13 John Street, New York" [with no illustration]. The Advance, p. 577. (Viewed 6 June 2019. C00981).

  • See worldcat.org for possible locations.

1876 - advertisement

S. Ayres, presumably Elmira, NY. (29 April 1876). Advertisement: "... Plated ware of the following manufacturers[:] Middletown Plate Co. ... " [with no illustrations]. Daily Advertiser (Elmira, New York), presumably p. 4, col. 8. (Viewed 21 April 2020. D01231-32).

1876 - advertisement

Middletown Plate Co. (21 September 1876). Advertisement: "Works of art in silver plated ware..." New York Tribune, p. 8, col. 6. (Viewed 18 September 2018. B00319).

1876 - three advertisements

Middletown Plate Co. (October 1876). Advertisement: "Works of art in silver plated ware by the Middletown Plate Co. factory, Middletown, Conn., salesroom, 13 John St., New York. Centennial display, Main Building, near elevator, Philadelphia." The Evening Post (New York). (Viewed 14 October 2018. B01051-53).



1876 patents

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1876 - patent - design for salvers

Augustus Conradt, assignor to Middletown Plate Company. (11 April 1876; filed 25 January 1876.) Design no. 9213: Design for salvers. (7 March 2018. AAA01015.)

1876 - patent - design for salvers

Augustus Conradt, assignor to Middletown Plate Company. (11 April 1876; filed 25 January 1876.) Design no. 9214: Design for salvers. (7 March 2018. AAA01014.)



1877 - advertisement

Middletown Plate Company. (29 November 1877). Advertisement: "... Superior Electro-Plated Ware. Showroom: 13 St. John Street, New York. Factory: Middletown, Conn. ... " [with no illustrations]. The Advance, p. 496. (Viewed 10 June 2019. C00983).

  • See worldcat.org for possible locations.

1877 - patent - design for salvers

Augustus Conradt, assignor to Middletown Plate Company. (2 January 1877; filed 20 December 1876.) Design no. 9686: Design for salvers. (7 March 2018. AAA01016.)

c. 1877 - map

O. H. Bailey & Co. (c. 1877). Middletown, Conn. map (bird’s eye view). [Lists "The Middletown Plate Co." under references (#32 illustration above the intersection of South Main Street and Church Street on Hubbard Street).] Viewed 27 February 2017. A01499.)

1878 - news mention

(10 January 1878). Legislative notes [with mention of Middletown Plate Co.] Hartford Courant, p. 2. (Viewed 21 October 2018. D00402).

  • See worldcat.org for locations.

"The controller has newly furnished the desks in the senate chamber with ink stands, paste pots, and stationery. Each desk has a silver-plated paper-weight, made by the Middletown plate company..." (Excerpt from above.)


1878 advertisements

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1878 - seven advertisements

Middletown Plate Company. (c. February-August 1878). Advertisements: "Superior Electro-Plate! Manufactured by The Middletown Plate Comp’y, Factories, Middletown, Conn., Salesrooms, 13 John Street, New York. 120 Sutter Street, San Francisco..." The Jewelers’ Circular and Horological Review. (Viewed 20 September 2017. G00500; G00504; G00507; G00512; G00516; G00520; G00523.)

1878 - advertisement

Middletown Plate Company. (September 1878). Advertisement: "Superior Electro-Plate! ... New Designs for Fall of 1878... goods for export..." (including illustration of a fruit dish and a nut bowl). The Jewelers’ Circular and Horological Review, p. iv. (Viewed 20 September 2017. G00527.)

1878 - two advertisements

Middletown Plate Company. (October and November 1878). Advertisements: "... Have added the following low-priced goods, but of the best quality, to their large and unrivalled assortment..." (including six illustrations). The Jewelers’ Circular and Horological Review. (Viewed 20 September 2017. G00532; G00535.)

1878 - two advertisements

Middletown Plate Co. (6 November, 9 November 1878). Advertisement: "Superior silver-plated ware, manufactured by the Middletown Plate Co., 13 John-St., New-York". New York Tribune. (Viewed 21 September 2018. B00347-48).

1878 - advertisement

Middletown Plate Company. (December 1878). Advertisements: "... Offer a full assortment of their Superior Electro-Plated Ware in Staple and Fancy Goods..." (including illustration of jewel box). The Jewelers’ Circular and Horological Review. (Viewed 20 September 2017. G00538.)



1878 - patent - improvements in jewel-caskets

Augustus Conradt, assignor to Middletown Plate Company. (24 September 1878; filed 17 July 1878). Letter patent no. 208,373: Improvements in jewel-caskets. (Viewed 13 March 2018. AAA01113).

1878 - patent - improvement in jewel-caskets

Augustus Conradt, assignor to Middletown Plate Company. (19 November 1878; filed 12 October 1878). Letters patent no. 210,012: Improvement in jewel-caskets. (Viewed 13 March 2018. AAA01114).

1879 - design catalogue

Middletown Plate Company (1879). Illustrated catalogue and price list of fine electro silver plate on hard white metal [including flatware manufactured by Rogers & Brother]. 118 pp. (Updated 12 October 2017. A00670-71; A00840; A01967; G01393.)

1879 - design catalogue reprint

Middletown Plate Co. (1879). Illustrated catalogue and price list of fine electro silver plate on hard white metal. 118 pp. "Reprint" in Trade catalogues at Winterthur (microform), (v. 1) (1984). Clearwater Pub. Co.: New York. (Updated 12 October 2017. A00518; A00902; A00904.) [2]


1879 advertisements

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1879 - advertisement

Middletown Plate Company. (January 1879). Advertisement: "... offer a full assortment of their superior electro-plated ware..." [with illustration of jewel box]. The Jewelers’ Circular and Horological Review, p. v. (Viewed 30 August 2018. B00294).

1879 - two advertisements

Middletown Plate Company. (c. February, March 1879). Advertisement: "... superior silver-plated ware. New designs..." [no product illustrations]. The Jewelers’ Circular and Horological Review. (Viewed 30 August 2018. B00296; E00233).

1879 - advertisement

Middletown Plate Company. (c. April 1879). Advertisement [with illustrations of water set with tray]. The Jewelers’ Circular and Horological Review, p. v. (Viewed 30 August 2018. E00236).

1879 - advertisement

Middletown Plate Company. (c. May 1879). Advertisement [with illustration of six-piece tea set and tray]. The Jewelers’ Circular and Horological Review, p. v. (Viewed 30 August 2018. E00241).

1879 - advertisement

Middletown Plate Company. (c. June 1879). Advertisement [with no illustrations]. The Jewelers’ Circular and Horological Review, p. v. (Viewed 30 August 2018. E00245).

1879 - advertisement

Middletown Plate Company. (c. July - December 1879). Advertisement: "... Superior silver plated ware..." [no illustrations]. The Jewelers’ Circular and Horological Review, p. vii. (Viewed 30 August 2018. E00249).

1879 - advertisement

Middletown Plate Company. (c. July - December 1879). Advertisement: "Superior electro-plate! ..." [with nine product illustrations: four butter dishes, two pickle jars, cake basket, and two casters]. The Jewelers’ Circular and Horological Review, p. iv-v. (Viewed 30 August 2018. E00251).

1879 - two advertisements

Middletown Plate Company. (c. July - December 1879). Advertisement: "Superior electro-plate! ..." [no illustrations]. The Jewelers’ Circular and Horological Review. (Viewed 30 August 2018. E00256; E00262).

1879 - advertisement

Middletown Plate Company. (c. July - December 1879). Advertisement: "New designs for fall of 1879..." [no illustrations]. The Jewelers’ Circular and Horological Review, p. ix. (Viewed 30 August 2018. E00267).

1879 - advertisement

Middletown Plate Company. (c. July - December 1879). Advertisement: "New designs for fall of 1879... ’Merry Christmas’ and ’Happy New Year’ ..." [no illustrations]. The Jewelers’ Circular and Horological Review, p. ix. (Viewed 30 August 2018. E00276).




Click the following link to see the parallel webpage - Middletown Plate Company in collections, at auction, and in exhibitions.


1880s

1880 - news mention

(22 July 1880). Melbourne’s exhibition (interview with the American Commissioner, Thomas R. Pickering) [with mention of Middletown Plate Company]. Daily Alta California (San Francisco), presumably p. 1, col. 4. (Viewed 10 October 2018. B00922-25)


1880 advertisements

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1880 - advertisement

Middletown Plate Company. (c. January 1880). Advertisement: "Spring season 1880..." [no product illustrations]. The Jewelers’ Circular and Horological Review, p. xi. (Viewed 31 August 2018. E00273).

1880 - advertisement

Middletown Plate Co. (7 August 1880). Advertisement: "The Middletown Plate Company, manufacturers of superior silver-plated ware. New designs for fall trade, Show Room, 13 John St., N. Y. Factories, Middletown, Conn." New York Tribune, p. 8, col. 6. (Viewed 18 September 2018. B00322).

1880 - advertisement

Bullard & George, presumably Watertown, NY. (4 October 1880). Advertisement: "Solid and silver plate ... Middletown Plate [Co.] ... " [with no illustrations]. Watertown Times (Watertown, NY), p. 1, col. 7. (Viewed 14 October 2018. B01075).



1880-81 - Middletown Plate in Melbourne exhibition

Melbourne International Exhibition, Australia. (1880). Melbourne International Exhibition 1880; The official catalogue of the exhibits, with introductory notes of the countries exhibiting, v. II, second edition to the first issue. [Exhibition dates: 1 October 1880 - 30 April 1881; American exhibits, including Middletown Plate Co. (Class 24.— Goldsmiths’ and Silversmiths’ Work, p. 235).] (Viewed 27 June 2016. A00997-1000.)

1881 - news mention

(23 July 1881). A week of pleasure. Successful meeting of the Carroll County Trotting Association... [with mention: "The handsome prize won by the Maryland team was made by the Middletown Plate Company..." (below scores section)] The Democratic Advocate (Westminster, MD), presumably p. 3, col. 3. (Viewed 18 September 2018. B00323).


1881 advertisements

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1881 - two advertisements

James Maher, Albany, NY. (3 & 11 August 1881). Advertisement: "Silver Plated Ware... Middletown Plate Co. ... " [with no illustration]. Albany Evening Journal (Albany, New York). (Viewed 7 June 2020. D01330-33).

  • Online - fultonhistory.com.
  • 3 August 1881, presumably p. 3, col. 7. (Search the archive, "Albany NY Evening Journal 1881 - 0760", and scroll down for the link.)
  • 11 August 1881, p. 1, col. 8. (Search the archive, "Albany NY Evening Journal 1881 - 0788", and scroll down for the link.)

1881 - three advertisements

Middletown Plate Company. (September 1881). Advertisements: "The Middletown Plate Co., Middletown, Conn., and 13 John Street, New York. Superior Silver-Plated Ware, in New Designs, For Fall Trade" [with no product illustrations]. The Independent (New York). (Viewed 19 December 2021. E01293-95).

  • Offline - 8 September 1881, p. 32; 22 September 1881, p. 32; 22 September 1881, p. 39. (Search worldcat.org for locations.)

1881 - advertisement

Middletown Plate Co. (27 October 1881). Advertisement: "... Middletown, Conn., and 13 John Street, New York. Superior Silver-Plated Ware in New Designs, For Fall Trade" [with no illustrations]. The Independent (New York), p. 32. (Viewed 30 August 2020. E01296).

  • Search worldcat.org for locations.



1882 advertisements

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1882 - advertisement

Middletown Plate Company. (5 January 1882). Advertisement: "... Middletown, Conn., and 13 John Street, New York. Superior Silver-Plated Ware in New Designs, For Fall Trade" [with no illustrations]. Independent (New York), p. 32. (Viewed 30 August 2020. E01292).

  • Search worldcat.org for locations.

1882 - two advertisements

Middletown Plate Co. (October 1882). Advertisement: "Middletown Plate Co., Middletown, Conn.; Superior Silver-Plated Ware. New Designs for Fall of 1882, Now Ready. Salesroom, 13 John St., New York" [with no illustrations]. The Independent (New York). (Viewed 19 December 2021. E01289; E01291).

  • Offline: 12 October, p. 32; 26 October, p. 32. (Search worldcat.org for locations.)

1882 - advertisement

Middletown Plate Co. (November 1882). Advertisement: "Middletown Plate Co., Middletown, Conn.; Superior Silver-Plated Ware. New Designs for Fall of 1882, Now Ready. Salesroom, 13 John St., New York" [with no illustrations]. The Independent (New York). (Viewed 19 December 2021. E01287-88).

  • Offline: 2 November, p. 32; 23 November, p. 32. (Search worldcat.org for locations.)

1882 - advertisement

Dillingham & Co., Fort St., Honolulu. (25 November 1882). Advertisement: "... Holiday presents... silver plated ware from the celebrated factories... Middletown Plate Co., among which are many designs entirely new to this market..." The Daily Bulletin (Honolulu) (supplement), presumably p. 4, cols. 3-4. (Viewed 18 September 2018. B00324).



1883 advertisements

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1883 - advertisement

Middletown Plate Company. (presumably 3 January 1883). Advertisement: ".... Offer a large assortment of Superior Silver Plated Ware; New Designs... Baskets, Butter Dishes... " [with illustration of trademark]. Quad-City Times (Davenport, Iowa), presumably p. 3, cols. 7-8. (Viewed 28 December 2021. D01800).

  • See worldcat.org for possible locations, or contact area public library.

1883 - advertisement

Dixson Reed & Co., Davenport, Iowa. (1 February 1883). Advertisement: "The Middletown Plate Comp... Superior Silver Plated Ware. New Designs... " [with illustration of logo]. Daily Democrat (Davenport, Iowa), presumably p. 4, cols. 7-8. D01802).

  • See worldcat.org for possible locations, or contact area public library.

1883 - advertisement

R. N. Hershfield, presumably Leavenworth, KS. (9 June 1883). Advertisement: "A great reduction in tilters... Middletown Plate Company ... " [with no illustrations]. The Leavenworth Times (Leavenworth, Kansas), p. 4, cols. 7-8. (Viewed 19 January 2021. D01801).

  • See worldcat.org for possible locations, or contact area public library.

1883 - advertisement

R. N. Hershfield, presumably Leavenworth, KS. (2 July 1883). Advertisement: "A great reduction in tilters... Middletown Plate Company ... " [with no illustrations]. The Leavenworth Times (Leavenworth, Kansas), p. 4, col. 6-7. (Viewed 19 January 2021. D01803).

  • See worldcat.org for possible locations, or contact area public library.

1883 - advertisement

R. N. Hershfield, presumably Leavenworth, KS. (1 August 1883). Advertisement: "A great reduction in tilters... Middletown Plate Company ... " [with no illustrations]. The Leavenworth Times (Leavenworth, Kansas), p. 2, cols. 6-7. (Viewed 19 January 2021. D01804).

  • See worldcat.org for possible locations, or contact area public library.

1883 - advertisement

J. H. Carter, San Diego, CA. (20 December 1883). Advertisement: "... the largest assortment of sterling Silver and Plated Napkin Rings, flat and hollow ware... Middletown Plate Co. ... " [with no illustrations]. The Record (National City, CA), presumably p. 2, col. 4. (Viewed 29 June 2021. D01805).

  • See worldcat.org for possible locations, or contact area public library.



1883 - patent - ice-pitcher

Henry Bullard, assignor to Middletown Plate Company. (20 March 1883; filed 24 January 1883). Letters patent no. 274,263: Ice-pitcher. (Viewed 13 March 2018. AAA01115).

1884 - design catalogue

Middletown Plate Co. (1884). Illustrated catalogue of superior silver plated ware. 172 pp. Springfield, MA: Springfield Printing Co. (Updated 12 October 2017. C00014-42; G01393.)

  • Offline - Connecticut Historical Society, Hartford, call no. Q 739.23 MG291;
  • Offline (microform) - Russell Library, Middletown public library, CT.


1884 articles

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1884 - news mention

(February 1884). Trade gossip (including mention of Middletown Plate Co. and new designs). The Jewelers’ Circular and Horological Review, p. 31. (Viewed 7 September 2018. C00290-91.)

1884 - news mention

(3 June 1884). Donations to the Garfield Hospital (with mention of "Middletown Plate [Co.] ... contributed the silver-plated ware". The Rock Island Angus (Rock Island, IL), p. 1, col. 3. (Viewed 22 September 2018. B00363).

1884 - news mention

(August 1884). Trade gossip (including mention of a new Middletown Plate Co. trade catalogue). The Jewelers’ Circular and Horological Review, p. 227. (Viewed 5 September 2018. F00268-69.)



1884 advertisements

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1884 - two advertisements

Middletown Plate Co. (January & February 1884). Advertisements: "Superior Silver Plated Ware, Manufactured by the Middletown Plate Co., ... Offices. Middletown, Conn.; 13 John Street, New York; 120 Sutter Street, San Francisco, Cal.; 101 & 103 State Street, Chicago, Illinois... (with two illustrations of tilting pitchers). The Jewelers’ Circular. (Viewed 19 September 2017. G00477; G00484.)

1884 - two advertisements

Roehm & Wright, presumably Detroit, MI. (6 & 7 April 1884). Advertisements: "... Vessel Owners, Hotel Keepers, Housekeepers... Middletown Plate Company... " [with no illustrations]. Detroit Free Press. (Viewed 1 June 2019. C00947-48).

  • See worldcat.org for locations: 6 April 1884, p. 1; 7 April 1884, p. 1.



1885 - missing catalogue and supplement

Middletown Plate Co. (1885). [Catalogue and supplement]. Number of pages unknown. (No copy known to be in a public library). (Viewed 8 September 2018. L00721-22).


1885 articles

See the article


1885 - news mention

(June 1885). Trade gossip (including mention of Middletown Plate Co.’s appointed agent S. F. Myers & Co., presumably in New York). The Jewelers’ Circular and Horological Review, p. 159. (Viewed 7 September 2018. C00293-94.)

1885 - news mention

(October 1885). Trade gossip (including paragraph about Middletown Plate Co. and current line, and supplement to 1885 catalogue). The Jewelers’ Circular and Horological Review, p. 297. (Viewed 8 September 2018. L00721-22).



1885 advertisements

See the ads


1885 - five advertisements

E. v. Seutter, Jackson, Mississippi. (May - July 1885). Advertisement: "... Middletown [Silver] Plate Co., (every visitor will recollect their gorgeous Exhibits at the Great Philadelphia Centennial) ..." The Clarion (Jackson, Mississippi). (Viewed 22 September 2018. B00364-68).

1885 - advertisement

Van Heusen, Charles & Co., Albany, NY. (13 August 1885). Advertisement: "Silver Plated Ware... Middletown Plate Co. ... " [with no illustrations]. Albany Journal (New York), p. 2, col. 5. (Viewed 20 August 2020. E01101-02).



1886 - missing design catalogue

Middletown Plate Company. (1886). [Catalogue]. Number of pages unknown. (No copy in a public library known to exist). (Viewed 6 September 2018. C00274.)


1886 articles

See the article


1886 - news mention

(August 1886). Trade gossip (including a paragraph on Middletown Plate Co. and their new catalogue). The Jewelers’ Circular and Horological Review, p. 242. (Viewed 6 September 2018. C00274.)

1886 - news mention

(16 October 1886). At Quinnipiac range; award of prizes [with mention of "a handsome silver-mounted vase" by Middletown Plate Company as a prize]. Morning Journal and Courier (New Haven, CT), presumably p. 2, col. 2. (Viewed 21 October 2018. B01175-76).



1886-87 - advertisement

Middletown Plate Co. (1886-87). Advertisement: "The Middletown Plate Co., Manufacturers of Finest Quality Electro Gold and Silver Plate...", p. v. Middletown and Portland directory for 1886-7. Price, Lee & Co.: New Haven, Conn. (Viewed 17 September 2017. G00454.)

c. 1888 - missing design catalogue

Middletown Plate Co. (c. 1888). [Catalogue]. Number of pages unknown. (No copy in a public library known to exist). (Viewed 6 September 2018. C00265).


1888 articles

See the articles


1888 - news mention

(February 1888). Trade gossip (with mention of Middletown Plate Co. and their new Chicago / Western representative). The Jewelers’ Circular and Horological Review, p. 92. (Viewed 5 September 2018. F00255-56.)

1888 - news mention

(7 March 1888). In Middletown factories [with mention: "... 150 [persons are employed at] the Middletown Plate company..." Morning Journal and Courier (New Haven, CT), presumably p. 2, col. 4. (Viewed 30 September 2018. B00596).

1888 - news mention

(April 1888). Trade gossip (with paragraph about Middletown Plate Co. and their new line). The Jewelers’ Circular and Horological Review, p. 94. (Viewed 6 September 2018. C00251; F00300.)

1888 - news mention

(May 1888). Trade gossip ( including mention that the Middletown Plate Co.’s New York office has moved to 22 John street). The Jewelers’ Circular and Horological Review, p. 85. (Viewed 8 September 2018. L00727).

1888 - news mention

(June 1888). Chicago briefs (about Middletown Silver Company and its new store in Chicago). The Jewelers’ Circular and Horological Review, p. 40. (Viewed 6 September 2018. C00255).

1888 - news mention

(June 1888). Trade gossip (about Middletown Silver Company and its new store in New York). The Jewelers’ Circular and Horological Review, p. 98. (Viewed 6 September 2018. C00256-57).

1888 - news mention

(August 1888). Trade gossip (with mention of Middletown Plate Co. and their new New York store). The Jewelers’ Circular and Horological Review, p. 91. (Viewed 8 September 2018. L00728).

1888 - news mention

(September 1888). Trade gossip (including paragraph that Middletown Plate Co. "are about to issue a new catalogue"). The Jewelers’ Circular and Horological Review, p. 96. (Viewed 6 September 2018. C00265).

1888 - news mention

(October 1888). Trade gossip (with mention of Middletown Plate Company and their current New York display). The Jewelers’ Circular and Horological Review, p. 107. (Viewed 8 September 2018. L00731).



1888 - advertisement

W. K. Vanderslice & Co., San Francisco, CA. (December 1888). Advertisement: "... In Plated Ware, we have all the standard makes, such as... Middletown Plate Co. ... " [with no illustration]. Overland Monthly and Out West Magazine (San Francisco, CA), page number unknown. (Viewed 2 June 2019. C00949-50).

  • See worldcat.org for locations.

1889 - design catalogue

Busiest House in America. (1889). 13th annual illustrated catalogue of the Busiest House in America containing illustrations and prices of a few leading and staple styles of diamonds, watches, jewelry, silverware, clocks, canes, umbrellas, opera glasses, gold spectacles, eye glasses, etc. [pp. 3-93 feature designs by Rogers, Smith & Co; Meriden Britannia; Meriden Silver Plate Co.; and Middletown Plate Co. without specifying which designs are by which of the 4 companies. Additionally, 1847 Rogers Brothers designs are on pp. 115-30, 134-38, and additional Rogers, Smith & Co designs are on pp. 135 & 137.] Catalogue: 482 pp. (Viewed 7 March 2017. A01684; AAA00585.)

1889 - map

(1889). Middletown, Middlesex County, Connecticut map (p. 14, showing Middletown Plate Company on Hubbard street). Sanborn-Perris Map Co. (Viewed 21 November 2016. AAA00483-85.)

1889 - news mention

(July 1889). Trade gossip [including paragraph on Middletown Plate Co., new goods presented at their New York office at 22 John street.] The Jewelers’ Circular and Horological Review, p. 88. (Viewed 15 September 2018. B00304.)


1889 advertisements

See the ads


1889 - advertisement

R. H. White & Co., presumably Boston, MA. (29 September 1889). Advertisement: "... Silver Plated Ware... ’Middletown’ [Plate Co.] ... " [with no illustrations]. Boston Sunday Globe, p. 8, col. 7. (Viewed 30 October 2020. F01664).

  • See worldcat.org for possible locations, or contact area public library.

1889 - advertisement

W. M. Whitney & Co., Albany, NY. (31 October 1889). Advertisement: "... Silverware, Cutlery... Middletown [Plate Co.] ... ". [with no illustrations]. Fulton County Republican (Johnstown, New York), p. 2, col. 7. (Viewed 27 December 2020. ).

  • Online - fultonhistory.com. (Search the archive, "Johnstown NY Fulton County Republican 1887-1890 Grayscale - 0421", and scroll down for the link.)


1890s

1890 articles

See the articles


1890 - news mention

(July 1890). Trade gossip [with paragraph on new goods by Middletown Plate Company]. The Jewelers’ Circular and Horological Review, p. 88. (Viewed 4 September 2018. F00244-45).

1890 - news mention

(6 September 1890). Local news; brief mention ["The Middletown (Silver) Plate company is driven with orders and the men are working extra hours..."] Morning Journal and Courier (New Haven, CT), presumably p. 2, col. 1. (Viewed 13 October 2018. B00999).



1890 advertisements

See the ads


1890 - advertisement

Lamoreaux, the Jeweler, Oil City, PA. (9 January 1890). Advertisement: "... Silver Plated Ware... My stock is new... Middletown Plate Company..." [with no illustrations]. Oil City Derrick (Oil City, PA), p. 8. (Viewed 23 January 2019. D00712-13).

  • See worldcat.org for locations.

1890 - two advertisements

A. & J. Plaut, Cincinnati, OH. (6 & 7 September 1890). Advertisement: "Fall offering! ... Silver-Plated Table Ware... Middletown Plate Co. ... " [with no illustrations]. Cincinnati Enquirer. (Viewed 21 June 2019. C00995-96).

  • See worldcat.org for possible locations: 6 September 1890, p. 8; 7 September 1890, p. 13.

1890 - advertisement

C. H. Gilman, Red House, Sacramento. (12 November 1890). Advertisement: "... Middletown [Plate Co.] 4-plate hollow-ware..." [with no illustrations]. Sacramento Daily Record-Union, p. 1, col. 1. (Viewed 10 October 2018. B00927-28).

1890 - advertisement

C. H. Gilman, Red House, Sacramento. (22 December 1890). Advertisement: "... Middletown [Plate Co.] 4-plate hollow-ware..." [with no illustrations]. Sacramento Daily Record-Union, p. 1, col. 1. (Viewed 10 October 2018. B00929-30).



1891 - two advertisements

Middletown Plate Company. (February 1891). Advertisement: "... Superior silver plated ware..." [with illustrations of mirror, three brushes, and comb]. The Jewelers’ Circular and Horological Review. (Viewed 1 September 2018. B00288; B00292).


1892 advertisements

See the ads


1892 - advertisement

Duhme & Co., Cincinnati, OH. (24 March 1892). Advertisement: "... The very choicest selections in Electro Silver Table Wares and Novelties, from Middletown Plate Co. .... " [with no illustrations]. The American Israelite (Cincinnati, Ohio), p. 7. (Viewed 1 June 2019. C00951-52).

  • See worldcat.org for locations.

1892 - advertisement

Duhme & Co., Cincinnati, Ohio. (2 October 1892). Advertisement: "Wedding Gifts... Middletown Plate Co. ... " [with no illustrations]. The Enquirer (Cincinnati, Ohio), p. 20, col. 8. (Viewed 11 June 2019. C00953).

  • See worldcat.org for locations.



c. 1892-93 - design catalogue

Middletown Plate Company. (1892-93). Illustrated catalogue of superior silver plated ware - standard goods. 180 pp. (Viewed 28 July 2018. C00203-02).

  • Offline - Meriden Historical Society, Meriden, CT.

1893 - directory listing

(1893). "Middletown Plate Co." listings. In The New England business directory and gazetteer, [pp. 1546 (Silver Plated Ware Manufs.), 1810 (Manufacturing Companies)]. (Sampson, Murdock & Co.: Boston, MA). (Viewed 5 May 2020. H01348-52).

1893 - two advertisements

Golden Rule Bazaar, presumably San Francisco, CA. (28 & 30 March 1893). Advertisements: "... Elegant Silverware... from the Middletown Plate Co., napkin rings, child’s knife sets, child’s cups, butter dishes, pickle casters, cake baskets, table casters, berry dishes, water and ice pitchers, tilting pitchers, tea sets; Fine Assortment of waiters, card receivers, bread trays, knives, forks, spoons, cutlery, etc." San Francisco Chronicle. (Viewed 15 June 2019. C00954-55).

  • See worldcat.org for locations: 28 March 1893, p. 5, col. 1; 30 March 1893, p. 5.

1894 - spotlighted news mention - Middletown Plate in Y.M.C.A. fair

(16 January 1894). Doors of the new YMCA building open with a blaze of glory [with mention of Middletown Plate Co.]. Peony Press (Middletown, CT), p. 3, cols. 2-3. (Viewed 24 October 2018. B01201-04).

  • Offline - on microfiche at Russell Library, Middletown, CT.

"Next to this space is that occupied by the Middletown Plate Co., with a full line of the silver ware manufactured by them. It is artistically arranged and includes every kind of hollow ware and ornamental articles. It is a very beautiful display and dazzling to the beholder." (Excerpt from above.)


1894 - spotlighted news mention - Middletown Plate Co. in Y.M.C.A. fair

(17 January 1894). Middletown; Some exhibits at the Y.M.C.A. fair. Hartford Courant, p. 8. (Viewed 23 October 2018. D00319).

  • See worldcat.org for locations.

"The Y.M.C.A. fair now being held in the new building is the largest and most interesting ever seen in Middlesex county. One could spend a day profitably in the four rooms devoted to the loan exhibits... The Middletown Plate Company have an elegant exhibit of silver plate ware in machine hall. ..." (Excerpt from above.)



1894 advertisements

See the ads


1894 - advertisement

Mandel Brothers, Chicago, IL. (1 January 1894). Advertisement: "... Art Wares, Silver Ware, and Dinner Ware... Middletown Plate Co. ... " [with no illustrations]. Chicago Daily Tribune, p. 5. (Viewed 6 June 2020. C00918).

  • See worldcat.org for locations.

1894 - advertisement

Mandel Brothers, Chicago. (7 January 1894). Advertisement: "... Silver-Plated Ware... Middletown Plate Co. ..." [with no illustrations]. Chicago Daily Tribune, p. 16. (Viewed 1 June 2019. C00942).

  • See worldcat.org for locations.



1895 advertisements

See the ads


1895 - advertisement

Mandel Brothers, Chicago, IL. (6 January 1895). Advertisement: "... silver-plated ware and cutlery... Middletown Plate Co. ... " [with no illustrations]. Chicago Daily Tribune, p. 8. (Viewed 1 June 2019. C00956).

  • See worldcat.org for locations.

1895 - four advertisements

Emil Steinmann, Sacramento, CA. (December 1895). Advertisement: ".... Middletown [Plate Co.] ... We sell silver plate that wears..." [with no illustrations]. The Record-Union (Sacramento, California). (Viewed 6 October 2018. B00791-94).



1896 advertisements

See the ads


1896 - advertisement

Middletown Plate Co. (14 October 1896). Advertisement: "The highest grade of silver plated ware..." (with illustrations of mirror, brush and comb). The Jewelers’ Circular and Horological Review, p. 3. (Viewed 29 August 2018. B00251.)

1896 - advertisement

M. D. Barnes, Receiver. (21 September 1896). Advertisement: Receiver’s sale, stock of Empire Jewelry Co., no. 705 Second Av., [presumably Seattle]... Middletown Plate Co.’s Quadruple Platedware... " The Seattle Post-Intelligencer (Washington), p. 5. (Viewed 30 September 2018. B00598).

1896 - advertisement

M. D. Barnes, Receiver. (22 September 1896). Advertisement: Receiver’s sale, stock of Empire Jewelry Co. ... Middletown Plate Co.’s Quadruple Platedware... " The Seattle Post-Intelligencer (Washington), p. 5, cols. 5-8. (Viewed 30 September 2018. B00599).



1897 advertisements

See the ads


1897 - advertisement

The Fair, Chicago, IL. (21 March 1897). Advertisement: "... Silverware... Middletown Plate Co. ... " [with possibly relevant abstract illustrations]. Chicago Daily Tribune, p. 44. (Viewed 2 June 2019. C00957).

  • See worldcat.org for locations.

1897 - text-based advertisement

Gimbel Brothers, Philadelphia, PA. (11 October 1897). Advertisement: "... Silverware and Cutlery... Middletown Plate Co. ... We sell their goods... " [with no illustrations]. Philadelphia Inquirer (Pennsylvania), p. 3, col. 3. (Viewed 28 August 2020. E01220).

  • See worldcat.org for possible locations.

1897 - text-based advertisement

Gimbel Brothers, Philadelphia, PA. (11 October 1897). Advertisement: "... Silverware and Cutlery... [Middletown Plate] Co. ... " [with no product illustrations]. The Philadelphia Times, p. 2, col. 3. (Viewed 11 July 2021. C01494).

  • See worldcat.org for possible locations, or contact area public library.



c. 1897 - historical information

Davis, William T. (Ed.) (c. 1897). On "Middletown Plate Company", (p. 1044). In The New England states, their constitutional, judicial, educational, commercial, professional and industrial history, vol. 2. Boston: D. H. Hurd & Co. (Viewed 10 June 2017. A02626; A02645.)


1898 advertisements

See the ads


1898 - advertisement

Middletown Plate Company. (1 March 1898). Advertisement: "The Middletown Plate Company... Invites the attention of the Trade in Foreign Countries to a Superior Line of Plated Wares..." [with illustration of no. 949, French coffee set, ebony handle]. American Jeweler, p. 67. (Viewed 18 December 2018. D00461).

  • See worldcat.org for locations.

1898 - advertisement

The Fair, Chicago, IL. (22 May 1898). Advertisement: "A Crash in Silverware. See the prices! ... Middletown Plate Co. ... " [with possibly relevant abstract illustrations].Chicago Daily Tribune, p. 37. (Viewed 18 June 2019. F00954).

  • See worldcat.org for possible locations.

1898 - advertisement

Middletown Plate Company. (24 August 1898). Advertisement: "... represents the highest grade of silver plate hollow ware..." [with illustration of five-piece tea set and tray]. Jewelers’ Circular and Horological Review, p. 37. (Viewed 3 September 2018. C00211).




Middletown Plate Company became part of the International Silver Company in 1899. After this date, it is assumed that any design patents utilized by the Middletown Plate Company division or brand were assigned to the International Silver Company. (See the ISC historical documentation page).



1899 articles

See the articles


1899 - news mention

(22 May 1899). Sold to the silveware trust [with mention of Middletown Plate Company and International Silver Co.] The Evening Post (New York), p. 3, col. 2. (Viewed 17 October 2018. B01110).

1899 - article

(17 June 1899). To close its plant (with mentions of the Middletown Plate Co. and Wilcox Silver Plate Co. [/ International Silver Co.]) New York Tribune, p. 6, cols. 1-2. (Viewed 13 October 2018. B01006-07).

"The International Silver Company, which recently purchased the plant and business of the Middletown Plate Company, to-day issued orders to the officials of the Middletown concern to close the factory on June 20. The business of the local factory will be transferred to Meriden, where it will be carried on at the plant of the Wilcox Silver Plate Company..." (Excerpt from above.)


1899 - article

(15 September 1899). On the co-operative plan; former employes of Middletown Plate Company organize company. Journal Courier (New Haven, CT), p. 1, col 7. (Viewed 13 October 2018. B01006).


1900s

1900 - news mention

(5 February 1900). [No article heading; listing the Middletown Plate Company as "Factory S" of the International Silver Company; the company has "gone out of their old place of business and merged into the Meriden branch..."]. The Daily Morning Journal and Courier (New Haven, CT), p. 1, col. 7. (Viewed 29 September 2018. B00566-67).


1900 advertisements

See the ads


1900 - advertisement

Walbridge & Co., Buffalo, NY. (29 January 1900). Advertisement: "... Specials in Silver Plated Ware... four-piece coffee set, made by the Middletown Plate Co. [/ International Silver Co.] ... " [with abstract illustration]. Buffalo Courier (New York), p. 5, col. 4. (Viewed 10 May 2020. H01488).

1900 - advertisement

Walbridge & Co., Buffalo, NY. (29 January 1900). Advertisement: "... Specials in Silver Plated Ware... four-piece coffee set, made by the Middletown Plate Co. [/ International Silver Co.] ... " [with abstract illustration]. Buffalo Evening News (New York), p. 4, col. 5. (Viewed 10 May 2020. H01489).



1903 - four advertisements

International Silver Company. (March-June 1903). Advertisements: "... Makers of Wares in Sterling and Silver Plate... [Factories:] The Barbour Silver Co., The Holmes & Edwards Silver Co., Meriden Britannia Co., The Meriden Silver Plate Co., Rogers & Brother, Wilcox Silver Plate Co., The Meriden Cut Glass Co., The Derby Silver Co., The Forbes Silver Co., The Wm. Rogers Mfg. Co., The Rogers & Hamilton Co.; Simpson, Hall, Miller & Co., The Watrous Mfg. Co., Middletown Plate Co. ..." House Furnishing Review. (Viewed 7 October 2017. G01154; G01159.)


1910s

1910 - news mention

United Press. (25 October 1910). Henry Bullard [formerly head of Middletown Plate Co.] dead. The Bridgeport Evening Farmer (Connecticut), p. 2, col. 7. (Viewed 30 September 2018. B00600).

c. 1914-16 - design catalogue

Forbes Silver Company / International Silver Company. (c. 1914-15, 1915-16). Plated hollow ware - The Forbes Silver Co. (International Silver Co., successor) makers of wares in silver plate, [cat. no. 20]. [1914-15 catalogue with supplement valid until 1916. "some pages labeled Middletown Plate Co."] 237 pp. (206 pp + 31 pp, supplement.) (Viewed 27 July 2018. C00198-14).

  • Offline - Meriden Historical Society, Meriden, CT.


1920s

1920-21 - design catalogue

International Silver Company. (1920-21). International Silver Co., Factory E makers of wares in silver plate, [cat. no. 21]. [Includes designs by Forbes Silver Plate Co. and Middletown Plate Co.] 142 pp. (Viewed 29 July 2018. C00199-01).

  • Offline - Meriden Historical Society, Meriden, CT.

1927 - news mention

(9 January 1927). Hospital benefit to be style show [with recollection of c. 1884 benefits which included the donation of silver by Middletown Plate Company to Garfield Memorial Hospital, Washington, DC]. Evening Star (Washington, DC), p. 25, col. 2. (Viewed 30 September 2018. B00601-02).


1930s

1936 - spotlighted article mention

Snow, William G. (17 April 1936). Meriden’s silverware industry history [with mention of Middletown Plate Co.] The Meriden Daily Journal [Fiftieth Anniversary issue (1886-1936)], unknown page numbers. (Viewed 30 December 2020. D01699).

1936 - article mention

(17 April 1936). International Silver Co. [with mention of Middletown Plate Co.] The Meriden Daily Journal [Fiftieth Anniversary issue (1886-1936)], unknown page number. (Viewed 25 November 2020. D01700).


1940s

1944 - advertisement

The Broadway, Los Angeles, CA. (10 December 1944). Advertisement: "Harry W. Smith Collection of Rare and Authentic Old American Silverplate... distinguished Christmas gifts... Middletown Plate Co. cut-corner tray... Emb. Middletown pitcher with saucer... " [with no photos]. Los Angeles Times, Part IV, p. 12. (Viewed 8 August 2020. C00903).

  • See worldcat.org for locations.

1947 - secondary source

May, Earl Chapin. (1947). "Middletown Plate Co." mention, (pp. 118). In Century of silver, 1847-1947; Connecticut Yankees and a noble metal. 388 pp. New York: E.M. McBride & Company. (Updated 17 April 2017. DM.)


1960s

1966 - encyclopedia entry

Rainwater, Dorothy T. (1966). "International Silver Co." [with mention of Middletown Plate Co.], (pp. 82-3). In American silver manufacturers: Their marks, trademarks and history. Everybodys Press: Hanover, PA. (Viewed 9 August 2020. L01882-83 L01900-01).

1966 - encyclopedia entry

Rainwater, Dorothy T. (1966). "Middletown Plate Co." [with marks], (p. 117). In American silver manufacturers: Their marks, trademarks and history. Everybodys Press: Hanover, PA. (Viewed 5 August 2020. L01882-83; L01908).

1967 - magazine article mention

Hogan, E. P. (November 1967). The card receiver in Victorian silverplate. Spinning Wheel, pp. 12-13. (Viewed 10 November 2017. AAA00697.)

Illustrations:
> Derby Silver Co.: card receiver (1883)
> Hartford Silver Plate Co.: card receiver (1856-62);
> Meriden Britannia Co.: two card receivers (1873, 1882); eight illustrations of card receivers from 1882 catalogue;
> Meriden Silver Plate Co.: card receiver (c. 1885);
> Rogers, Smith & Co.: card receiver (1856-62);
> Also, Middletown Plate Co.; Simpson, Hall, Miller & Co.; Wilcox Silver Plate Co.; and Wm. Rogers Mfg. Co. are mentioned.

  • Offline - "Meriden - Industries - Silver" file, Meriden Public Library, CT.
  • See worldcat.org for other locations.


1968 articles

See the articles


1968 - mention in article

Hogan, E. P. (September 1968). Silverplated butter dishes. Spinning wheel magazine. pp. 26+. [Shows examples of designs by Meriden Britannia Co.; Middletown Silver Plate Company; Simpson, Hall, Miller & Co.; and Wilcox Silver Plate Company.] (Viewed 10 August 2017. AAA00634.)

  • Offline - "Meriden - International Silver Company" file, Meriden Public Library.
  • See worldcat.org for more locations.

1968 - article mention

Cole, Ann Kilborn. (9 June 1968). American plated silver [with mention: "... Many names still known today were those of silvermakers and pewter makers in Connecticut... Middletown Plate Co. ... " Philadelphia Inquirer (Magazine), p. 44. (Viewed 8 September 2020. F00956-57).

  • See worldcat.org for locations.




Click the following link to see designs and documentation for other historical silver companies from the Meriden area, and those that were connected to the International Silver Company; go to the historical Meriden design overview page and scroll down to section D: "ISC, predecessors & divisions" and E: "Other featured companies".


1970s

1971 articles

See the articles


1971 - article mention

Hogan, E. P. (March 1971). Victorian silverplated toilet stands [with mention, and illustration of Middletown Plate Co. design]. Spinning Wheel, pp. 18-9. (Viewed 21 July 2021. R01568).

1971 - article mention

Hogan, E. P. (September 1971). Collectible silverplated jewel caskets of long ago. Spinning Wheel, pp. 10-11. (Viewed 11 November 2017. AAA00697.)

Illustrations:
> Derby Silver Co. / Victor Silver Co.: three jewel caskets, one in Art Nouveau style (1883, c. 1896, c. early 1900s);
> Meriden Britannia Co: three jewel caskets (1873-77, 1879, c. 1879);
> Meriden Silver Plate Co.: jewel casket (c. 1880);
> Middletown Plate Co.: jewel casket (c. 1874);
> Wilcox Silver Plate Co.: three jewel caskets (1884, 1896, c. 1896);
> Also, Simpson, Hall, Miller & Co. is mentioned.

  • Offline - "Meriden - Industries - Silver" file, Meriden Public Library, CT.
  • See worldcat.org for other locations.



1975 - article mention

Allen, Olive E. (5 November 1975). Early silversmithing was a way to safeguard money [with mention of Middletown Plate Co.]. Press-Observer (Marcellus, New York), p. 7. (Viewed 2 May 2020. H01295).

  • Online - fultonhistory.com. (Search the archive, "Marcellus NY Weekly Observer 1975 - 1975 Grayscale - 1333", and scroll down for the link.)

1975 - magazine article mention

Hogan, E. P. (June 1975). The old fashioned ice pitcher. Spinning Wheel. Four-page article but page numbers unclear.] (Viewed 10 November 2017. AAA00696.)

Illustrations:
> Derby Silver Co. (late 1880s);
> Meriden Britannia Co. double-walled ice pitchers (1855, 1867), ice urn (c. 1875), tilting pitcher sets (c. 1874, 1878);
> Rogers, Smith & Co. tilting pitcher set (1886);
> Wilcox Silver Plate Co. double-walled pitcher (1873) and tilting pitcher set (1885).
> Article also mentions Middletown Plate Co. and Rogers Bros. Mfg. Co.

  • Offline - "Meriden - Industries - Silver" file, Meriden Public Library, CT.
  • See worldcat.org for other locations.

1976 - magazine article mention

Hogan, E. P. (May 1976). Silverware for children [with illustration of Superior Silver Co. [Middletown Plate Co. brand] child’s cup (c. 1890)]. Spinning wheel, pp. 13-16. (Updated 20 July 2021. AAA00699; R01559.)

  • Online - archive.org. (Email-based registration required.)
  • Offline - "Meriden - Industries - Silver" file, Meriden Public Library, CT.

1977 - secondary source

Hogan, Edmund P. (1977). "Middletown Plate Company" mentions, [pp. 157; 167-68 (including illustration, undated; also excerpt above.] In An American heritage: A book about the International Silver Company. Taylor Publishing Company: Dallas, TX. (See excerpt at the top of this webpage. Updated 17 April 2017. DM.)

1978 - magazine article mention

Hogan, E. P. (April 1978). 19th century call bells in silverplate. Spinning Wheel, pp. 16-17+. (Viewed 11 November 2017. AAA00698.)

Illustrations:
> Meriden Britannia Co.: 8 call bells from 1861 catalogue; 3 figural call bells from their 1878 catalogue; 18 call bells from their 1886 catalogue;
> Also, Bradley & Hubbard Manufacturing Company; Derby Silver Company; Meriden Bronze Company; Meriden Silver Plate Co.; Middletown Plate Co.; Simpson, Hall, Miller & Co.; Wilcox Silver Plate Co.

  • Offline - "Meriden - Industries - Silver" file, Meriden Public Library, CT.
  • See worldcat.org for other locations.

1978 - magazine article mention

Hogan, Edmund P. (September 1978). Victorian cracker jars & biscuit jars. Spinning wheel, pp. 8-9. (Viewed 11 November 2017. AAA00699.)

Illustrations
> Middletown Plate Co.: 4 biscuit jars and a cracker jar, reprinted from catalogue (c. 1880)
> Wilcox Silver Plate Co.: 6 biscuit jars, reprinted from catalogue (c. 1880)
> Also, Forbes Silver Company and Meriden Flint Glass Co. are mentioned.

  • Offline - "Meriden - Industries - Silver" file, Meriden Public Library, CT;
  • See worldcat.org for other locations.


1980s

1980 - secondary source

Hogan, Edmund P. (1980). "Middletown Plate Company" mentions. In The elegance of old silver plate and some personalities. Schiffer Publishing Limited: Exton, PA. (Updated 17 April 2017. DM.) [3]

Middletown Plate Company content

> p. 23 (call bells);
> p. 27 (napkin rings);
> p. 38 (ice pitchers, Tilters);
> p. 44 [photo of butter dish, (c. 1885)];
> pp. 58-61 [cracker or biscuit jars; 10 photos are not specified but defined as either designs by Middletown Plate Company or Wilcox Silver Plate Co., (c. 1880)];
> pp. 62-3 (nut and fruit bowls and one photo of design);
> p. 74 [photos of spoon holders, (1867, c. 1888)];
> p. 78 [photo of combination sugar bowl and spoon holder, (1879)];
> p. 104 [photo of Superior Silver Co, children’s cup, (c. 1890)];
> p. 111 (card receivers);
> p. 113 (photo of c. 1882 jewel casket);
> p. 117 [photo of jewel casket, (c. 1874)];
> p. 136 (illustration of two toilet sets, undated);
> p. 142 (toiletware - handmirrors, etc.).


1990s

1990 - magazine article

(January / February 1990). ["Middletown Plane Co. Premiums" (probably Middletown Plate Co.).] Silver Magazine. (Viewed 7 September 2017. G00204.)

1994-95 - Middletown Plate in Texas exhibition

(1994). Back in style: Selections from the McFaddin-Ward House Reserve Collection at Art Museum of Southeast Texas, Beaumont (exhibition catalogue). [Dates: 5 February 1994 - 13 March 1995; exhibited design: Middletown Plate Company / replated by Meriden Britannia Co. (c. 1877). Tea and coffee service. Silver plate. (p. 24-25, with photo).] (Viewed 15 February 2017. AAA00570-76.)

1998-99 - Middletown Plate Co. in exhibition

(c. 1998 - 1 June 1999). Rum, rubber & rattraps; A history of local enterprise at the Middlesex County Historical Society, Middletown, CT. (D00312; H00404).

  • McCain, Diana Ross. (5 August 1998). Local firm made silver affordable to those who were less than rich [with mention of the Middletown [Silver] Plate Company. Hartford Courant, presumably p. 2. (Viewed 19 October 2018. D00312). (See worldcat.org for locations.)
  • According to the MCHS director, an unspecified coffee pot by Middletown Plate Co. (private lender) was exhibited.


2000s

2004 - encyclopedia entry

Rainwater, Dorothy T.; Fuller, Martin; Fuller, Collette. (2004). "International Silver Company" [with mention of Middletown Plate Co.], (p. 116-20). Encyclopedia of American silver manufacturers, (revised and expanded 5th ed.). Schiffer Publishing: Atglen, PA. (Viewed 8 August 2020. A02925a-c(-)27a-c).

2004 - encyclopedia entry

Rainwater, Dorothy T.; Fuller, Martin; Fuller, Collette. (2004). "Middletown Plate Co." [with marks], "Superior Silver Co." [with marks], Superior Silver Plate Co., and mention of Gem Silver Plate Co. (Wilcox Silver Plate Co.), (pp. 161-2). Encyclopedia of American silver manufacturers, (revised and expanded 5th ed.). Schiffer Publishing: Atglen, PA. (Viewed 17 August 2017. A02886, A02934a,b; A02935a,b.)


n. d.

Photographic plates

Middletown Plate Company. (undated). [Large catalog of photographic plates showing various objects.] 208 pp. (Viewed 20 February 2017. AA00570-084.)

  • Offline - Meriden Historical Society.

Map

(Undated). Middletown Plate Company - fire insurance map. (Viewed 15 May 2017. A02437.)

  • Offline - Warshaw Collection of Business Americana, c. 1724-1977, Archives Center, National Museum of American History, Smithsonian, Washington, DC, Box 2, Folder 5, no. 7429.


Footnote:
[1] The Middletown Plate Company, Middletown, CT, was acquired by the International Silver Company in 1899. At this juncture, it is not known to Design Meriden if this company became an ISC division. [See "A Guide to the International Silver Company Records, 1853-1921 (link to library entry)". University of Connecticut university libraries website.] Viewed 16 May 2016. [A00660]

[2] McKinstry, E. Richard / Winterthur Museum. (1984). Trade catalogues at Winterthur: A guide to the literature of merchandising, 1750 to 1980 (online). [Entry no. 1672, p. 291]. Garland Publishing: New York and London. Viewed 19 June 2016. (Please note, sometimes the trade catalogue itself is searchable in a library catalogue, and sometimes one needs to search the microform series as a whole.) [A00518; A00904]

[3] See Hogan, Edmund P. (1980). The elegance of old silver plate and some personalities. Schiffer Publishing Limited: Exton, PA. ISBN 0-916838-30-7. Superior Silver Company is identified as a "secondary brand" of the Middletown Plate Company concerning the marketing of toiletware c. 1894-86, (pp. 141-42). University of Connecticut Library call no. NK7240.5 .H63 1980 (link to library entry). (See worldcat.org for other locations.) Updated 17 April 2017. [DM]



DESIGN MERIDEN:
On Middletown Plate - 1: designs in collections, etc. | 2: design catalogues, etc.