First families historically had to provide their own flatware service and often borrowed pieces from local hotels. Mrs. Shivers established a tradition of purchasing sterling flatware officially designed for use at the Mansion. She chose Reed and Barton sterling flatware in the “Pointed Antique” pattern. A hand-engraved seal of the State of Texas appears on the front of almost every piece. Additions to the set are engraved with the last name and dates of the administration during which the pieces were purchased.
