In 1824, Isaac Babbitt created a new metal alloy while experimenting in his shop in Taunton, Massachusetts. He called his discovery Britannia metal, which was used to produce the highest quality pewter ware to date. Babbitt employed a number of talented craftsmen, including Henry G. Reed and Charles E. Barton. Reed and Barton became valuable assets Babbitt and when the company encountered financial difficulties they offered to assume control.
Under Reed and Barton’s management, the company produced merchandise of the highest quality using the name Reed & Barton moniker. Initially the pair manufactured heavy silver-plate, however they began to fabricate sterling silver wares when rich deposits of silver were discovered in the American west during the later half of the 19th century. Reed & Barton were one of the first companies to employ electroplating methods during this period and are known as pioneers in this technology.
Reed & Barton flourished over the years and today the company remains vital. The companies present day products include sterling silver, silver-plate and stainless flatware and giftware as well as Miller Rogaska Crystal which Reed & Barton acquired in 1996 as an established company. In addition, Reed & Barton also produces Handcrafted Chests, offering quality hardwood, silver and jewelry chests, as well as humidors and pen chests. Reed & Barton also manufactures merchandise for the Sheffield Silver Company and distributes goods for Aynsley Fine China and Belleek Irish Parian China.
Reed & Barton had the privilege of being selected as the sole producer of Medals in gold, silver and bronze for the 1996 Centennial Olympic Games in Atlanta, Georgia. The company is among the longest-lived large and privately held organizations in the United States, which is the result of continuous family involvement since inception. Management and employees at Reed & Barton today have the same sense of dedication craftsmanship and customer service as their forebears.