Hand Pressed Glass Cup Plate "PCPCA Hyannis"

This Historical Reproduction Cup Plate was created for the 2nd annual convention of the Pairpoint Cup Plate Collector's Association, held in Hyannis MA in 1981. Since the convention was held in Hyannis, then association president Nina Sutton chose to honor the area's Indian heritage. The Sachem Iyanough of Mattacheese was a friend and entertainer of the Pilgrims and a gentle and courteous native. He was also Sagamore (Chief) of the Wampanoag Indian Federation whose territory included the Town of Hyannis, whose name was likely derived from Iyanough's.  Iyannough died in 1623 and his grave is preserved in Cummaquid MA.

Measuring 3.5" in diameter, this cup plate was made by hand using a glass press and hand carved pressing mold, following the same process used for cup plate production in the 19th century.

1825 - 2025 Bicentennial Celebration: in 2025 the Sandwich Historical Society is celebrating 200 years of glass making in Sandwich, by offering for sale a collection of vintage reproduction cup plates. Proceeds from cup plate sales go directly to fund the special events and services offered as part of our 2025 bi-centennial celebration. We thank you for your support of the Sandwich Historical Society and its Glass Museum! 

Glassmaking in Sandwich, MA, began in 1825 with the establishment of the Sandwich Glass Manufactory by Deming Jarves, a Boston entrepreneur. The factory was reincorporated in 1826 as the Boston & Sandwich Glass Company, and manufactured glassware until 1887.  

Cup Plates were commonly used in the early 19th century. Teacups at the time had no handle, so it was the custom to pour hot tea into a saucer for cooling and drink from the saucer. The cup was set aside on a decorative cup plate like this one to prevent soiling the table linens or marring the tabletop.