Bookplate, Portland, ca. 1774
Item 100324 info
Tate House Museum
In 1789 Samuel Tate’s daughter, Ann (1767-1844), married Joseph Holt Ingraham (1752-1841), a talented silversmith who became a successful Portland merchant.
Ingraham moved to Falmouth in Casco Bay from York to work with John Butler, an enterprising silversmith. Ingraham’s Fore Street property was destroyed during the 1775 bombardment but he promptly rebuilt his home and shop.
Imitation topaz, Portland, ca. 1800
Item 100343 info
Tate House Museum
In the expanding post-war economy, Ingraham invested in real estate and other businesses, moving from work as a skilled artisan to that of a merchant.
In 1801 the Ingrahams built an elegant Federal-style house designed by Alexander Parris on lower State Street.
As part of his real-estate investments, Ingraham sold lots in what was becoming Portland's most fashionable neighborhood.
Amethyst, Portland, ca. 1800
Item 100342 info
Tate House Museum
Ann and Joseph raised a family of 11 children, including two from his previous marriages. Ann’s great-grandson, William M. Ingraham, was among the earliest supporters of the restoration of Tate House in memory of his mother.
William held prominent positions as mayor of Portland in 1915-1916 and as President Woodrow Wilson’s assistant secretary of war.
Other Ingrahams donated rare historic heirlooms that had descended in the family line.
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