Oval Ice Cream Tray
Item Number: T-05
Length: 13½″
Production Dates: 1915-1925
As an eBay Partner, I may be compensated if you make a purchase on eBay. The following link shows available Ice Cream Trays/Platters on eBay.
Handled Oval Pin Tray – 6″
Item Number: T-03
Length: 6″
Production Dates: 1915-1943
The Fostoria Glass Company made more than one Oval Pin Tray. Each one is different in design, as well as in their size dimensions. The Handled Oval Pin Tray was featured in Fostoria’s 1915 Catalog Supplement, which originally debuted the American pattern. Two trays were introduced at that time, the Oval Comb & Brush Tray and the 6″ Handled Oval Pin Tray.
Both trays are very similar in design; however, the Oval Comb and Brush Tray is the largest – approximately 10″ in length. The Handled Oval Pin Tray is approximately 3″ wide and is actually about 6¾” in length, if measured from handle to handle. Fostoria simply named this piece the 6-Inch Oval Pin Tray. Another Oval Pin Tray (different design) was produced later; hence, I call the item featured in this post the “Handled” Oval Pin Tray to distinguish between the two pieces. The other version is more rare, void of any handle, and can be seen here.
Production dates on this piece are estimates, based on my research and catalog verification. There are some authors on Fostoria American that have the production dates wrong on this item, but only by a few years. Without a doubt, we know that the Handled Oval Pin Tray was featured in the 1915 Catalog Supplement. Therefore, we know it came into production in 1915 and was produced until approximately 1943.
The Oval Pin Trays are not common items – certainly not something you typically find while treasure hunting. When I do find these pieces, I make sure to rescue them right away! The sides of the tray are clear glass, with the cube design on the bottom. Unfortunately, many times you will find the inner rims nicked or slightly damaged due to wear and tear over the years. I find this piece to be truly unique, and it can be used for a multitude of purposes – even today.
As an eBay Partner, I may be compensated if you make a purchase on eBay. The following link shows available Oval Pin Trays on eBay.
Oval Pin Tray
Item Number: T-06
Approximate Size: 5¼″ L; 4¼″ W
Production Dates: 1916-1925
The Oval Pin Tray is a beautiful piece, and it’s considered a highly desirable item in the American pattern. Other types of small Trays were made, such as handled and rectangular versions. A smaller and similar Oval Tray was also offered; however, it was not a regularly-produced or cataloged item. The Oval Pin Tray featured in this post has measurements of 5¼″ x 4¼″, making it the perfect size for a dressing table.
There are many production date discrepancies about this particular piece in the various published books on Fostoria American. It does appear that the Oval Pin Tray was not in production for a long time. Records are not complete on this item, and some catalogs don’t show a photo of it. With a short life span, any remaining pieces that survived should certainly be considered a treasure to behold.
As an eBay Partner, I may be compensated if you make a purchase on eBay. The following link shows available Trays on eBay. Please note; however, that the Oval Pin Tray is not a common item – so chances are it might not be displayed in the search results.
Oval Platter – 12″
Item Number: 560
Length: 12″ L – 8½″ W
Production Dates: 1933-1973
In addition to a variety of dinnerware and accessories, Fostoria Glass also produced Tortes, Trays, and Platters in the American pattern. The Oval Platter is one such example. The Oval Platter was available in two sizes – a smaller 10½″ version, or the larger 12″ size. The picture in this post is that of the 12″ Oval Platter.
The Oval Platters should not be confused with the Oval Ice Cream Trays, even though they have the same shape. They are two different pieces. The quickest and easiest way to distinguish between the Oval Ice Cream Tray and the 12″ Oval Platter is to count the number of points around the dish. The 12″ Oval Platter will have thirty-two (32) points. The Oval Ice Cream Tray will have thirty-six (36) points.
The Oval Platters are quite substantial in weight and function. They are still relatively easy to find, even in today’s times. I seem to find more of them online than when visiting antique stores. If a buyer saw them in person while treasure hunting, I have no doubt they would purchase them fairly quickly.
As an eBay Partner, I may be compensated if you make a purchase on eBay. The following link shows available Oval Platters on eBay.
Handled Lunch Tray w/ Glass Handle
Item Number: 723
Diameter: 12”
Production Dates: 1939-1973
The Handled Lunch Tray is an item in the American line that rarely gets talked about. While it is not a particularly common piece, it certainly is not rare either. Thankfully, it is still fairly easy to find today.
The Handled Lunch Tray boasts a circular star burst handle that stands proudly above the center of the tray. The open handle design allows for easy finger access and handling. The Tray is approximately 12 inches in diameter, and will prove to be a great server for a multitude of foods, appetizers and/or desserts.
As an eBay Partner, I may be compensated if you make a purchase on eBay. The following link shows available Handled Lunch Trays on eBay.
Sugar and Cream Tray
Item Number: 697
Length: 6¾″
Production Dates: 1938-1982
The Sugar and Cream Tray is most often seen as one piece of a three-piece set, with either the Individual Cream & Sugar – or the Tea Cream & Sugar. The Tray is the same for both sets. When these sets were being produced, you could buy the three pieces as one set, or you could buy any of the three items (Sugar, Cream, and/or Tray) individually.
The Sugar and Cream Tray was produced from 1938 – 1982. It is about 8″ in length when measured from handle to handle. The Tray portion is about 6¾” in length and approximately 4″ wide. The sides of the Tray come up about ¼ of an inch, ensuring that the Sugar and Cream will sit securely in place.
While this particular tray is obviously most used when serving Cream and Sugar, it can also be used with other pieces in the American line. For example, it holds Salt & Pepper Shakers beautifully. It is also the official tray that is used in the 3 Pc. Jam Pot Set. It can even be used for Mini Cupcakes, and individual appetizers or salads.
As an eBay Partner, I may be compensated if you make a purchase on eBay. The following link shows available Trays on eBay. You might have to search for Cream and Sugar sets as well, as many times the Trays are sold as a set.
Learn the Difference between Whitehall and Fostoria American
