Gorham

• Interesting Facts About Gorham

Gorham was founded in 1831 by Jabez Gorham. Jabez was one of the founders of the silverware and jewelry industry in 18th century New England. Jabez started his first business, which failed after five years. Determined to pursue his craft, Jabez started his own business as "Jabez Gorham, Jeweler." He achieved great success and was able to hire a small staff. He was the first to make "French filigree" jewelry and a special kind of gold chain known today as the Gorham chain. Jabez's business struggled until 1831 when Jabez and his craftsmen started making "coin silver spoons" which became popular and were in high demand throughout New England.

Gorham dominated American silver from the late 19th century to the 20th century. For over 170 years, Gorham has been commited to quality and it shows in his craftsmanship which is apparent in each and every piece.

Interesting Facts about Gorham:

• Gorham crafted the famous monument of George Washington for our nation's Capitol Rotunda.
• Also, Gorham crafted the famous Theodore Roosevelt statue outside the Museum of Natural History in New York.
• The "Independent Man" sculpture commissioned for Rhode island's famed domed state house was also crafted by Gorham.
• Several Presidents have requested Gorham's elegant tableware for the White House.
• President Bush made the pattern Chantilly the official sterling flatware for Air Force One.
• In 1876, Gorham was chose by Mrs. Grant to help commemorate the nation's Centennial.
• Gorham has also designed trophies to honor major sporting events such has the Borg-Warner Trophy for the Indianapolis 500, the Davis Cup for tennis and the America's Cup for yachting.
• Gorham also designed Mrs. Abraham Lincoln's tea set.
• In 1899 for Admiral George Dewey, Gorham designed a "loving cup" made up of 70,000 dimes.

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