Hello Susan.
I can't narrow it down to 1854, but it's possible.
In 1846 Samuel Kirk's son, Henry Child Kirk, became a partner and the name of the firm became Samuel Kirk & Son.
In 1861 Charles D. Kirk and Clarence E. Kirk entered the business. The name was then changed to Samuel Kirk & Sons at this time.
In 1868, after the Civil War, the two younger brothers left the firm and the name became Samuel Kirk & Son again.
http://www.925-1000.com/Kirk_Date_Code.html" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;
Pat.