At Charles Street Studios, we’re proud to be part of and carry on the rich tradition of pottery and ceramics in New Jersey and Bergen County.
The history of pottery and ceramics in New Jersey, particularly in Bergen County, is rich and diverse starting with the original indigenous people’s to the colonial and revolutionary war era and into the 18th, 19th, 20th centuries to today. Let’s explore the fascinating history of pottery and ceramics in New Jersey, from its early beginnings to the present day. 🏺
**Archaeological Insights**:
Archaeological investigations have revealed the origins of New Jersey’s stoneware industry, with high-grade clays suitable for pottery production found in the South Amboy area of Middlesex County. Throughout history, New Jersey has played a crucial role in shaping American ceramics, from utilitarian wares to artistic innovations.
Native American exhibit – State Museum, Trenton, NJ
**Colonial Era and Early American Pottery in New Jersey**
In colonial times, stoneware pottery was produced in Trenton, New Jersey. James Rhodes was a notable potter in Trenton during this period. Trenton became one of the two major pottery centers in the United States, alongside East Liverpool, Ohio. The industry began to flourish in the mid-19th century. William Young & Co., established in 1853, played a significant role in Trenton’s pottery development. They produced Rockingham ware and contributed to the growth of the industry. By the 1920s, Trenton had over fifty potteries operating throughout the city, making contributions to white graniteware production and art porcelain.
**Colonial Era and Early American Pottery in New Jersey**
In colonial times, stoneware pottery was produced in Trenton, New Jersey. James Rhodes was a notable potter in Trenton during this period. Trenton became one of the two major pottery centers in the United States, alongside East Liverpool, Ohio. The industry began to flourish in the mid-19th century. William Young & Co., established in 1853, played a significant role in Trenton’s pottery development. They produced Rockingham ware and contributed to the growth of the industry. By the 1920s, Trenton had over fifty potteries operating throughout the city, making contributions to white graniteware production and art porcelain.
**Bergen County Red Earthenware Pottery**:
River Edge, located in Bergen County, sustained a prosperous red earthenware business in the 19th century.Henry Jacob Van Saun established a pottery business in River Edge around 1811. Notably, he manufactured plates and platters celebrating the 50th anniversary of the American Revolution and the return of Marquis de Lafayette in 1824-25. These commemorative wares featured profiles of Lafayette and George Washington surrounded by stars, reflecting the historic event and local demand.
**American Porcelain Production**:
In the early 19th century, authentic American porcelain ceramics were produced in Jersey City, Bergen County, New Jersey. Simultaneously, Philadelphia also had an ambitious porcelain production factory. These developments marked a shift towards luxury ceramics and higher-grade materials. The Pennsylvania German tradition in ceramics persisted into later centuries, even as stoneware clays were discovered in northern New Jersey. While the focus shifted away from rustic wares, the legacy of ceramics continued to shape New Jersey’s artistic landscape.
Notable organizations and developments in New Jersey pottery and ceramics include:
**Potters’ Guild of New Jersey**:
Founded in 1987, the **Potters’ Guild of New Jersey** plays a crucial role in promoting the development of ceramic artists in the state. The guild fosters knowledge exchange, education, and networking among professional and recreational potters, educators, and students. Members participate in monthly meetings, workshops, and demonstrations featuring prominent potters. The guild also hosts several shows and sales throughout the year, attracting pottery enthusiasts from the Greater New Jersey Area. Their commitment to educating the public about hand-made pottery and ceramic art contributes to the vibrant ceramic community in the region.
**Local Collections**:
The Bergen County Historical Society maintains a collection that includes pottery and ceramics. While their focus extends beyond just pottery, they house locally made pieces, including Hackensack Valley cupboards and chairs. These artifacts provide insights into the craftsmanship and artistic expression of New Jersey’s ceramic artists over time.
**Materials and Makers**:
Many ceramic and glass pieces in New Jersey are made from the state’s natural resources, such as red, yellow, and white clays, as well as finely-grained sand. Notable makers include Dummer (Jersey City) Glass, Whitall Tatum Glass Co., Lenox, and Boehm. These nationally recognized manufacturers have contributed to New Jersey’s ceramic heritage.
**Stoneware Potteries**:
New Jersey stoneware has a fascinating history. An exhibition titled “New Jersey Pottery to 1840” showcased extensive illustrations of New Jersey stoneware. The exhibition, curated by James R. Mitchell, highlighted the work of stoneware potters in the state. Captain James Morgan and the Kemple family were among the notable stoneware potters during the eighteenth century in New Jersey.
In summary, New Jersey’s pottery and ceramics have evolved over time, with guilds, local collections, and talented artists contributing to the vibrant ceramic scene. Charles Street Studios is proud to contribute to the rich and proud history of ceramic art and pottery in Bergen County New Jersey. We’re here to support and provide experienced ceramic artists and potters with quality workspaces for rent so they can hone their craft and create amazing pieces of art. Charles Street Studios is your ceramics and pottery workspace studio. Contact us to learn more.
Jar, attributed to Morgan pottery, Cheesequake, New Jersey, 1775–1784. Salt-glazed stoneware. H. 12 1/4″. (Private collection; photo, Gavin Ashworth.) This vessel is decorated with three cobalt-blue watch-spring designs on the front and back, as well as cobalt-blue rings at the base of each handle and cobalt-blue paired watch springs adjacent to the lower end of both vertically oriented handles.
Applying glaze on an industrial level
The Trenton Potteries Company, 1892-1941
Eagle Pottery (Burroughs & Mountford) circa 1887
Trenton Fire Brick and Terra-Cotta Works Ad, circa 1875