In the late 1890's the general populace had a great many stereotypes about people of different races and nationalities. There was widespread hatred and prejudices against new immigrants and in particular the poorer immigrants from Italy, South Eastern Europe, Irish, and Jews. These peoples were widely considered to be "sub human" , dirty, of low morals and never capable of becoming "good Americans".
American Negro's were also considered to have many of these same qualities and were often considered to be lazy and indolent, and despite their integration within society, the middle and upper classes of the 1890's - 1920's considered them to be of low morals, ignorant and only fit for the poorest jobs in society. At this time in history there was a thriving community of small Negro entrepreuneurs and a developing middle class, but stereotypes are not affected by facts.
Silver Souvenir Spoons were primarily purchased by the upper middle and wealthier classes, thus the images about Blacks which were portrayed were highly stereotyped. Negro's were almost always shown with big smiles and were often shown eating watermelon or loafing or fishing.
Most of the spoons of this genre are stereotyped in this manner but are fairly benign. In a few cases, however, the spoons are highly racist. I personally DO NOT AGREE with these stereotypes and have avoided producing this exhibit for many years, but the historian in me feels that it is necessary to show these types of spoons, and the amount of mail I receive about this subject indicates that there is an interest. At this time, spoons portraying Black People are highly sought after and are valued collectibles (although I don't understand it). A great many different varieties of these spoons are available, but I have just a few to share with you.