MENU
For over a century, Gorham Sterling Silver has stood as one of the most recognized names in American silver. Known for its craftsmanship, artistry, and wide range of flatware and hollowware designs, Gorham helped define elegance in dining and decorative arts. Today, both collectors and design enthusiasts look to Gorham as a hallmark of quality and tradition.
The Gorham Manufacturing Company was founded in Providence, Rhode Island in 1831 by Jabez Gorham, a skilled silversmith, alongside his partner Henry Webster. Initially focused on coin silver spoons, the company quickly grew in reputation for its quality and attention to detail.
By the mid-19th century, under the leadership of Jabez’s son, John Gorham, the firm expanded its product line and adopted new manufacturing methods. This move allowed Gorham to produce silver items on a larger scale without compromising quality, setting the stage for its future dominance.
The late 19th and early 20th centuries were Gorham’s golden years. The company became a leader in innovation, introducing elaborate silverware patterns that appealed to both Victorian tastes and later Art Nouveau sensibilities.
Gorham’s work reached an international audience, with pieces showcased at world’s fairs and admired by royalty and dignitaries. U.S. presidents, including Abraham Lincoln and Ulysses S. Grant, were known to own Gorham pieces, further cementing the brand’s prestige.
One of Gorham’s hallmarks was the variety and intricacy of its flatware patterns. Designs such as Chantilly, Strasbourg, and Fairfax became household names, gracing dining tables across America. Each pattern reflected the style of its era, from ornate floral motifs to sleek, understated lines that matched modern tastes.
In addition to flatware, Gorham produced a wide array of hollowware, including tea sets, candlesticks, and serving pieces. These items showcased the company’s ability to balance functionality with artistry, making them enduring favorites among collectors.
Gorham was also notable for its collaborations with artists and designers. One of the most famous was the partnership with sculptor Augustus Saint-Gaudens, which brought an artistic sensibility to silver design. Gorham also invested heavily in technological advancements, including the use of machinery that allowed for both detailed ornamentation and consistency in production.
This blend of art and industry distinguished Gorham from many contemporaries, giving its work a unique place in the decorative arts landscape.
Today, Gorham sterling silver remains highly collectible. While mass-produced pieces are relatively accessible, rare patterns, complete flatware sets, and special commissions can command significant value. Condition, rarity, and pattern popularity all play roles in determining market interest.
Collectors often seek out early pieces or discontinued patterns, while others look for Gorham items to complement historic interiors or formal dining settings. The continued demand highlights the enduring appeal of the brand’s craftsmanship and design.
Although the company changed hands multiple times during the 20th century and faced challenges in maintaining its original prestige, the legacy of Gorham sterling silver remains strong. Its name continues to be associated with refinement, history, and artistry in American decorative arts.
Gorham Sterling Silver is more than just flatware or hollowware—it represents a tradition of innovation and craftsmanship that shaped American taste for generations. From its beginnings in a small Providence workshop to its recognition on the global stage, Gorham’s history reflects both the artistry and evolution of American silver. For collectors, historians, and enthusiasts, Gorham remains a symbol of enduring beauty and craftsmanship.
