Theodore Haviland China Replacements, Dinnerware, Tableware

Theodore Haviland china pattern replacements from Robbins Nest

There were numerous china manufacturers in Limoges, but Haviland’s company was the first to have artists on the site to do the decorating. After the Civil War, David sent his son, Theodore, to the U.S. to handle distribution and marketing. Production dramatically increased and another son, Charles Edward Haviland, took over management of the firm from his father. Many talented artists were engaged and soon the lithograph or transfer technique of decoration was developed. White House china sets were designed for Presidents Lincoln, Grant, Hayes and Harrison. But the Victorian housewife was the primary customer with a wide variety of patterns to choose.

Theodore Haviland left the company to start his own in 1893 and was a very innovative marketer. Many prizes were won at exhibitions by both Haviland companies. “A set in every home” became Theodore’s goal and full services of china for $29.95 are found in the Sears catalogs of the 1920s. Several patterns from both firms were used as premiums by the Jewel Tea Company. It is estimated that there are over 30,000 patterns and variations.

Charles Haviland’s company went out of business in 1931. Because of the approaching hostilities in Europe, Theodore moved his company to the United States in 1936 which operated until 1957. The patterns of both companies were gathered and bought in 1941 by William Haviland who retired in 1972. Although the name “Haviland” remains today the firm has gone through several changes in ownership.   Information taken from Haviland Collectors