In this grab and go, drive-thru window world, it would seem that for many of us the days of sitting down at the table for a family meal are all but over. Yet, there remains one time each year when we make an exception. That time is Thanksgiving and what better time to bring those boxes of vintage china out of storage and get ready for a feast!
Depression Glass was manufactured from the late 1920s through the early 1940s. No grinding or hand polishing was done to these machined, mass-produced pieces. The way it came from the mold, was the way it was shipped. You could purchase most pieces for around 14 cents, a full set of dinnerware would run you $2-$3, or you could find it free in a box of oatmeal. At the peak of production is was made by more than 20 factories and available in over 100 patterns making it easy to find and fun to collect. Prices have dropped considerably in the past few years making this the perfect time to round out your set for the holidays.
Give-away promotions were at the peak of their popularity in the 1950s and 60s and Homer Laughlin stepped up to meet the demand. Dishes were found in boxes of detergent and oatmeal and given out at local gas stations and movie theaters. Many patterns were promoted in this manner, but none more successfully than HL’s “Golden Wheat” (1949-1966). This tableware, featuring a large windblown shock of wheat on a creamy white background, included platters, plates, salad plates and bread & butter plates, various size bowls and cups and saucers. The collaboration between the failing detergent company and Homer Laughlin saved DUZ from extinction and made “Wheat” dishes an MCM classic.
With its charming depictions of the English countryside, Johnson Brothers Friendly Village has been gracing the holiday tables of America for over 70 years. Produced in England from 1953-2003, this transfer ware, often referred to as “White Granite,” has the look of fine china but the chip resistance and durability of ironstone. COLLECTORS NOTE: If you are shopping for replacement pieces make certain to check the back stamp for the words “Made in England.” Production was moved to China in 2003 and the newer pieces, marked “Johnson Brothers England 1883,” are of lesser value than vintage pieces.
Noritake has been producing beautiful, affordable, assembly line china since 1920. With over 135 patterns it was one of the most popular store bought brands of china in mid-20th century America. The approximate year of production is noted by the back stamp. Pieces made 1921 until the beginning of WWII will be marked “Japan” or “Made in Japan.” Those produced 1948-1953 were stamped “Occupied Japan” or “Made in Occupied Japan” and those from 1953 forward will have the original stamp with the addition of the letter “N”.
Be it Haviland, Pope Gossard, Copeland, or the product of one of the other porcelain factories from the first half of the 20th century, fine china can be the most intimidating of all family heirlooms. With its delicate beauty, the thought of it getting damaged puts many people off. I used to feel that way until I remember that Mom served Thanksgiving dinner on her beautiful Rosenthall china for over 40 years! I decided to give it a try; after all, it would assure a lovely table. What I didn’t anticipate were the conversations of the family members as they shared their memories of the dinners served on this china at Grandma’s house. The day was filled with a lot of laughter, a few tears and a dinner our family will long remember.
Make the holidays extra special for your loved ones this year. Go ahead, unpack Grandma’s dishes. Until next time . . . Linda
Linda Kennett is a professional liquidation consultant specializing in down-sizing for seniors and may be reached at 317-258-7835 or lkennett@indy.rr.com
