Antiquity in American manufacturing history and an honorable name are synonymous with a mention of the John Russell Mfg. Co., which became the oldest and largest cutlery establishment in the United States, having had its origin with John Russell, at Greenfield, about 1834, in the “Green River Works.” Built on the banks of the Green River, in Greenfield, Massachusetts, it later became the site of the tap and die pioneering company of Wiley & Russell Co., and eventually Greenfield Tap & Die Company, after 1912.

This lovely set of knives and forks consists of 12 knives and 12 forks with pearl handles, sterling silver bolsters and silver plated knife blades and fork tines. I believe this is a luncheon set because of the somewhat smaller size pieces. The knives measure 7 3/4" in length and the forks measure 7" in length. The pattern is called "Flatware 1" based upon the design of the bolster piece. The knives are etch marked on the blade "1834 - J Russell & Co - 12"; this mark was used from 1834-1865. Very good to excellent condition. The set was used with a plain teaspoon, perhaps of coin silver.