White House China of the Lincoln Administration in the Museum of History and Technology

by Margaret Brown Klapthor

"White House China of the Lincoln Administration in the Museum of History and Technology" by Margaret Brown Klapthor is a historical account written in the mid-20th century, specifically in the 1960s. This publication delves into the significance of the china used during President Abraham Lincoln's administration, focusing on the efforts of First Lady Mary Todd Lincoln to procure suitable porcelain for entertaining at the White House. The book serves not only as an exploration of the Lincolns' choice of china but also aims to shed light on the broader history of Presidential china in the United States. The text outlines the circumstances surrounding Mrs. Lincoln's urgent need to acquire china upon her arrival at the White House, as the existing stock was insufficient for official functions. Through detailed accounts of her shopping excursions in New York City and Philadelphia, the book illustrates how Mrs. Lincoln not only chose a new dinner service, famously known as the "Solferino" set, but also experienced controversy regarding the cost of the china and allegations of impropriety in its purchase. Klapthor supports her narrative with contemporary records and anecdotal evidence, revealing how the china reflects not just aesthetic choices but the political and social dynamics of the era. The work ultimately underscores the historical importance of Presidential china and its role in American political culture.