A silver heirloom touched with blue—belonging to a woman who never let a day pass without wearing her favorite color.
This isn’t just a silver pot—it’s a singular moment in time, captured in shimmer and story.
Made in the late 1800s by Barbour Silver Co. (Model 3160), this silver-plated coffee or chocolate pot once belonged to Charlotte Waterhouse, a direct descendant of the Blackington family of Blackington, Massachusetts—a family so historic the town now bears their name in its designated district.
Charlotte married into the Waterhouse line—original accountants for a long-standing family business—and together they were known for their forward-thinking views, advocating for human rights and racial equality in an era when few dared to.
But Charlotte wasn’t just principled—she was dazzling. Brilliant, artistic, and joyfully whimsical, she made beauty a daily act of rebellion and devotion. She insisted on wearing blue every day—be it a sapphire, a stitch of ribbon, or the lining of her dress. That love for blue is forever captured in this piece, which still carries a subtle, ethereal blue sheen that was intentionally applied—a personal touch, not a flaw.
That hint of blue makes this piece truly one-of-a-kind. No other known Barbour model exists with this treatment. It was a custom decision—reflecting Charlotte’s unique eye and artistic spirit. That alone adds extraordinary value.
The pot itself features a sculptural, swanlike spout, a delicately curled handle with acanthus-leaf detailing, and a hinged lid crowned by a dramatic wreath finial. The floral repoussé band around the lid shows exquisite handwork typical of late Victorian silver.
Whether it once poured chocolate during candlelit salons or strong coffee during political conversation, this piece holds both grace and substance.
Details:
Maker: Barbour Silver Co. (later International Silver Co.)
Model Number: 3160 (Stamped)
Date: c. 1890s
Material: Silverplate over copper or nickel base
Condition: Excellent antique condition with light, even patina. Hinge is intact and secure.
Height: [Insert if measured]
Unique Feature: One-of-a-kind original blue patina—deliberately preserved by its original owner, Charlotte Waterhouse
Provenance: From the estate of Charlotte Waterhouse, descendant of the Blackington family, Blackington, MA
Why It’s Priceless (Well, Almost):
This is a singular piece. There are no others with this blue-toned finish, no others touched by this story, and no others connected to a woman who made everyday life an artistic statement.
If you are a collector, a lover of heirlooms, or someone who understands that whimsy is power—this pot belongs with you.
Thanks for watching (that was apprently her favorite goodnight after one of the many political debates with friends).
A silver heirloom touched with blue—belonging to a woman who never let a day pass without wearing her favorite color.
This isn’t just a silver pot—it’s a singular moment in time, captured in shimmer and story.
Made in the late 1800s by Barbour Silver Co. (Model 3160), this silver-plated coffee or chocolate pot once belonged to Charlotte Waterhouse, a direct descendant of the Blackington family of Blackington, Massachusetts—a family so historic the town now bears their name in its designated district.
Charlotte married into the Waterhouse line—original accountants for a long-standing family business—and together they were known for their forward-thinking views, advocating for human rights and racial equality in an era when few dared to.
But Charlotte wasn’t just principled—she was dazzling. Brilliant, artistic, and joyfully whimsical, she made beauty a daily act of rebellion and devotion. She insisted on wearing blue every day—be it a sapphire, a stitch of ribbon, or the lining of her dress. That love for blue is forever captured in this piece, which still carries a subtle, ethereal blue sheen that was intentionally applied—a personal touch, not a flaw.
That hint of blue makes this piece truly one-of-a-kind. No other known Barbour model exists with this treatment. It was a custom decision—reflecting Charlotte’s unique eye and artistic spirit. That alone adds extraordinary value.
The pot itself features a sculptural, swanlike spout, a delicately curled handle with acanthus-leaf detailing, and a hinged lid crowned by a dramatic wreath finial. The floral repoussé band around the lid shows exquisite handwork typical of late Victorian silver.
Whether it once poured chocolate during candlelit salons or strong coffee during political conversation, this piece holds both grace and substance.
Details:
Maker: Barbour Silver Co. (later International Silver Co.)
Model Number: 3160 (Stamped)
Date: c. 1890s
Material: Silverplate over copper or nickel base
Condition: Excellent antique condition with light, even patina. Hinge is intact and secure.
Height: [Insert if measured]
Unique Feature: One-of-a-kind original blue patina—deliberately preserved by its original owner, Charlotte Waterhouse
Provenance: From the estate of Charlotte Waterhouse, descendant of the Blackington family, Blackington, MA
Why It’s Priceless (Well, Almost):
This is a singular piece. There are no others with this blue-toned finish, no others touched by this story, and no others connected to a woman who made everyday life an artistic statement.
If you are a collector, a lover of heirlooms, or someone who understands that whimsy is power—this pot belongs with you.
Thanks for watching (that was apprently her favorite goodnight after one of the many political debates with friends).
Image 1 of 5
Image 2 of 5
Image 3 of 5
Image 4 of 5
Image 5 of 5