Expert: Martin G Roberts - 7/20/2004

Question
I realize you do not list silver as an area of expertise, but am writing out of desperation!  I have several serving spoons that have been in the family for generations, but cannot pinpoint the correct generation!  None of the makers are listed on the web.  They are: Wm. H. Ewan  (the m is at the top, as would be the c in McBeth, and had a period underneath), S.& B. Brower (this one has sterling symbols, but are not listed as American that I can find - the middle of the three symbols looks like an English stirrup, upside down, and the one on the right looks as though it might be a man's head, facing to the left).  The third spoon is Coan & Pallai? (last letter not legible) This is printed as a semi-circle (as on a coin) with Moblie (I assume that is Alabama) in a straight line underneath.  All three spoons are remarkably similar - very plain and 8.5 inches long.  There is no design (except for initials) on the front at all, and very little where the bowl attaches to the handle on the back.  I can send pics if needed.  They may be anywhere from pre-American civil war to WWI, and probably from the US, England, or Bermuda (or somewhere inbetween!)  Since the males in the family have had the same initials for generations, they are not of much help.  Have any ideas?  Any help is appreciated!
Thanks,
Sarah T.

Answer
I can't help much. The lack of anything resembling English silver hallmarks suggests they are either not English or not silver (or both).

You need to consult reference works on American silversmiths and their marks - I have no idea which are the best, as I don't handle silver at all.