Fish Slice

Datec. 1856

MediumSilver

Dimensions11 5/8 inches (29.5 cm)

MarkingsMaker's mark stamped on the handle back: H.P. HORTON

Credit LineGift of James A. Williams.

Object number1968.18.85

On View

On view

CopyrightThe images and text contained on this page are owned by Telfair Museums or used by the Museum with permission from the owners. Unauthorized reproduction, transmission or display of these materials is prohibited with the exception of items deemed “fair use” as defined by U.S. and international copyright laws.Label TextConnecticut-born silversmith Humphrey P. Horton (1823–1865; active in Savannah 1851–c. 1863) opened a jewelry store in Savannah in 1851 with New York silversmith Cornelius H. Rikeman (c. 1811–1861) in the firm Horton & Rikeman. They sold and retailed several articles at their shop at 116 Broughton Street such as watches, jewelry, and silver and plated ware. The two partnered together for about five years, advertising extensively, before ending their partnership in 1856. Over the course of the 19th century, dining ware became more elaborate and specialized utensils were developed for eating. As serving fish became increasingly fashionable, fish slices enjoyed widespread popularity. Silversmiths often decorated these utensils with marine themes, as seen with the fish on the blade here. The handle is engraved “MSC” likely for Maria Sophia Champion (1832–1890) who married into the McAlpin family of Savannah and lived on their Hermitage Plantation as well as the Harper-Folkes House.

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