Engraved with the names “Austin” and “Bryan,” this tea and coffee service is notable for its distinguished provenance so closely associate with early Texas history. It was commissioned in 1848 by Emily Austin Bryan Perry (1795–1851), a sister of Stephen F. Austin, for her home, Peach Point Plantation in Brazoria County.

In 1831, the Perrys left Potosi, Missouri, to join Emily’s brother in Texas. Following his death, she harnessed his estate to manage the development of San Luis and Austinia (now Texas City), as well as to invest in the Brazos and Galveston Railroad Company to build the first railroad in Texas. In addition to these endeavors, she contributed towards the expansion of religious foundations and education.

In 1848, Emily and James Perry placed an extensive order with the New Orleans firm of Hyde & Goodrich, “Importers of Fine Watches & Jewelry AND Silver & Plated Ware, Fine Guns, Lamps, Jewelry, Gold & Silver Laces, Military & Fancy Goods REPAIRED.” The commission is documented with unusual detail in a series of invoices and correspondence with George L. Hammekin spanning from July 1 through September 22 and even specifies the expense for freight to Galveston at $2.05.