Used on the Chesapeake & Ohio’s prestigious dining cars from 1955 to 1971 (and several more years under contract with Amtrak), the “Chessie” china pattern was the last china pattern used in C&O passenger service.  Years ago, the C&OHS created and sold both reproductions of and “fantasy” additions to this pattern’s original pieces.  Now manufactured in partnership with the Homer Laughlin China Company in Newell, West Virginia, the last major dinnerware producer operating in the United States, our non-profit organization again brings this staple of C&O passenger service back to life with even greater historical accuracy. In 2020, the company rebranded as The Fiesta® Tableware Company and continues to operate in Newell, WV.

Using over 150 years of American craftsmanship experience, the HLC’s Art Department digitally analyzed the Chessie cat art and coloring of original C&O china pieces from the collection of a long-time C&O Historical Society member.  This mug is a “fantasy” addition to the Chessie china pattern–a modern, functional mug based on the “dolphin”-style cup from the C&O’s original china pattern.  This product combines the American-made quality you can expect from Homer Laughlin China Co. with modern benefits; all china products from HLC are microwave, dishwater, and oven safe.  This versatility means you can use your Chessie china pieces for either formal display or everyday purposes!