Sorry I didn't hear your presentation. I'm sure it was interesting. I found much of what you summarized on the web, in response to my question, but it's good to know of your research. I heard from Richard Friedman of Harvey Houses who also said he couldn't confirm that the blue plate was willow. Still he thought it is interesting speculation.
Here are the two articles that sparked my interest on the origin of "Blue Plate Special" http://www.worldwidewords.org/qa/qa-blu3.htm although the author didn't confirm it either. Also http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Blue-plate_special.
Thanks again.
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