|
Seagrove's pottery tradition dates back to the 1700's, before the American Revolution. Many of the first Seagrove potters were English and German immigrants who primarily produced functional, glazed earthenware. Due to the high quality of the local clay, the Plank Road passing through the town and, later, the railroad, Seagrove became known for its pottery.
The popularity of Seagrove was severely reduced due to the Industrial Revolution and the advent of modern food preparation. For a time, whiskey jugs were a successful source of income, but the beverage was outlawed and potteries continued their decline in the early 1900's.
The potteries struggled until around 1920, when they became popular with Northern tourists visiting nearby Pinehurst. The new tourist industry marked a general change from utilitarian pottery to more decorative ware.
After another decline from the 1950's through the 1970's, a renewed interested in traditional pottery began to sweep the area again, enabling the tradition that began in the 1700's to continue. The tradition that began so long ago in the Seagrove area is striving today, in some cases by artists who represent the eighth and ninth generations of potter families.
The annual Seagrove Pottery Festival has become the premier traditional pottery event in North Carolina. Other pottery events are also scheduled throughout the year so that all visitors can engage in the art, the craft and the traditions of this unique piece of North Carolina's living history. Join the thousands who visit and shop in the largest community of working potters in the United States. Experience Seagrove, the Birthplace of North Carolina Traditional Pottery ... there's a surprise at every turn!
Used by permission of Randolph County Tourism Development Authority | Copyright ©2006 | All rights reserved. |