Madera Courthouse Commemorative Spoon 1902

The Madera County Courthouse sterling silver bonbon spoon was manufactured by the Paye & Baker Manufacturing Company located in North Attleboro, Massachusetts. This company was formed when Frank Baker bought out Jessie Simmons from the firm of Simmons & Baker in 1901. Madera County Courthouse was completed in 1902, and it seems reasonable to assume that the spoon was made in that year to commemorate the event. It depicts the original cupola that was destroyed by fire in 1906.

Paye & Baker hallmark

Usually, souvenir spoons are designed for tea, coffee, or demitasse. Bonbon spoons are much rarer. The spoon above is made from a blank showing California in bold letters and other state emblems. The reverse of the handle has the eagle and shield of the United States, as well as the American flag. The bowl, with its French grey finish, is hand engraved with a 3/4 view of the Madera County Courthouse. The spoon measures about 5 1/2".

.