Q: I have used a set of Franciscan Apple dishes for over 60 years and my mother used them before me. I have one 8-inch plate that is marked "this is my first piece of Franciscan Ware." Can you tell me when these dishes were first made and why "this is my first" is stamped on one?A: A piece of Franciscan Ware was given to each girl graduating from high school in the Los Angeles area in the 1940s-50s, probably marked like yours. We have seen an Apple mug with the "this is my first" marking. Franciscan dinnerware was made by Gladding, McBean and Company of Glendale, California. Gladding, McBean was founded in 1875 and began selling dinnerware and art pottery under the name Franciscan Ware in 1934. Two of the most popular Franciscan patterns are Apple, introduced in 1940, and Desert Rose, introduced in 1941. They are both still being made. Franciscan became part of the Wedgwood Group in 1979 and production was moved to Staffordshire, England.
8 comments:
Our family used these dishes, that my Mother received as a wedding present in 1946, every day. When my Dad retired in 1971, Mom asked me if I wanted the plates and I said no so she sold them. About 10 years ago, I saw an "Apple" cup and saucer in an antique shop, purchased them, and the rest is history. I now have service for 8 plus many serving pieces, I use the plates every day (they go in the dishwasher and the microwave) just like Mom, and opening the cupboard they are all in fills my heart with tons of sentimental joy. Wish I had Mom's originals but had a great time gathering my plates piece by piece from all over the country.
Terry, what is your take on how the financial situation of the Wedgwood Group will affect the companies mafacturing so many beloved patterns of china and crystal?
I have a set of the Ivy Franciscan ware, all made in California, but I don't see much of it around. How does it rate on the value market?
I have been collecting the Desert Rose Pattern for years, have enough to make a service for twelve. I have the huge Turkey Platter, also smaller platters,and many of the side pieces, cream and sugar, salt and pepper. ect. I am wondering what they would bring on the market.
My mother began purchasing Apple pattern Franciscan Ware at Frederick and Nelson in Seattle in 1952. This dish is included with the set. Might the plate have been a bonus with first purchase?
I have a set of Franciscan ware Apple that I inherited from my grandmother & aunt. I know she's had them at least 40 years. I love them and want to all pieces to the set. Hope to get some from the same time period.
I have mostly side pieces and dont really have a use for them, they were givin to me by a family member. It is the older desert rose from francisian made in California. all are in excellent shape. anyone intrested in buying or know what they are worth? have seen some prices online but dont know if thats for the old or newer stuff if they still make it.
I inherited my parents' Franciscan ware which they purchased in the early 40s. I am hesitant to clean them in the dishwasher because of possible damage to the glazing from the soap and temperature. However, I am wondering if it is safe to only use the rinse/hold cycle. Thanks in advance for a reply.
Post a Comment