The Elegance of Old SilverplateSilverplating by electricity spawned a new industry in America in 1847. By the 1880's, over forty firms centered largely around Meriden, Connecticut, produced ornate objects of silverplate which have become highly prized. Today these are studied and collected as representatives of an interesting period of American history. The designs drew heavily on nature and the articles are ornamented with flowers, twigs, nuts, birds, bees, butterflies, squirrels,