Today's post is my 1700th on this blog. The earliest post that I can pull up was dated November 25, 2009. I had no idea I had been blogging on this subject for 11 years. Since then I have changed jobs multiple times, moved 3 times (2 states), one daughter got married, we now have 2 granddaughters, and all along I have managed to build a wonderful collection of different sterling silver flatware piece.
For birthdays, Christmas, and other gift giving occasions I have received many lovely pieces from friends and family. And, although they do not share my passion, they proudly tell stories about how or where they found the piece. So now they are always on the lookout in antique stores, estate sales, the random auction, and flea market for a unique old piece, usually monogrammed.
They are amused when they learn that their find was some obscure utensil developed by the Victorians to serve and enjoy some specific fruit, meat, soup, or dish. They find there is jam spoon AND a jelly spoon (one never serves jam with a jelly spoon). And 3 different soup spoons (cream, gumbo, and bouillon)? Seriously? And, we will not even get into the Horseradish or Marrow scoops, the terrapin pieces, or even the different place pieces for various types of seafood. (I have always said the Victorians never met a food they did not develop a specific silver piece with which to eat it and/or serve it.)
There are 56 unique place pieces for each place setting. Of course they are never on the table at the same time. Luckily the Victorians and Edwardians had knowledgeable staff who ensured each course was served with correct piece.
All this has been a labor of love. And, as far as I can see, I am nowhere done as there are stills 100's patterns I have yet to identify.
But, what has motivated me the most has been you, my loyal readers. Given I am recognizing this anniversary of my blog, I would appreciate each of you posting a comment as to why you read the blog, what you find most interesting, and what, if anything you have learned.
But most of all, thank you for joining me on this fabulous ride.
Ann Currie
