Images(4)

Server, Pie

Object number2019.98.3

Manufacturer John Polhamus

Date1863

MediumSilver

Credit LineGift of Charlotte O'Neil Oliver

DescriptionSilver metal pie server. Server has a wedge shaped blade with curved sides that change to a scalloped edge where the blade meets the handle. Handle is narrow and widens to an oval-shape at the top. Top of blade has scroll work etching with flowers, and top of handle has engraved text and more scroll work. Underside of pie server has scroll work on the handle that carries on to the scalloped edge of the blade. Underside has pressed text on the handle.DimensionsHeight x Width x Depth: 10.313 x 3 x 0.813 in. (26.2 x 7.6 x 2.1 cm)
InscriptionsEngraved, cursive text at end of handle on top: "Dallas C. Irish / To his Mother / Aug. 1863".
MarksPressed text on back of handle: "JP PATENT 1855 / OWEN".
Historical NotesThis pie server belonged to Lydia Beckford Irish. It was presented to her after the Battle of Vicksburg. Her son, Dallas Cadwallader Irish, fought in the battle. Dallas Cadwallader Irish was the son of Lydia and William Beckford Irish. He was born in Mercer County in 1832, and grew up in New Lisbon, Ohio, and New Brighton, Pennsylvania. During the Civil War he was commissioned a Captain in the 13th Infantry Regiment of the United States Army under General William Sherman, who was a colonel at the time. Dallas was brevetted Major and Lieutenant Colonel for gallant and meritorious service at the Battles of Arkansas Post and Vicksburg. He resigned his commission in April of 1866 and returned to New Castle. He married Linda Jack in 1869. Irish held extensive real estate properties in Pittsburgh that included the Penn Building and “Irish block” near St. Clair Street. He lived his later years near Dallas and Penn Avenues, where he died in 1899. He is buried in Homewood Cemetery.

Related person Dallas Cadwallader Irish (1832 - 1899)

Related institution United States Army

Related institution 13th Infantry Regiment

Previous owner Lydia Beckford Irish

Subjects