The art of pottery-making has a rich history, with its own unique language and techniques. For centuries, potters have used various tools and methods to create beautiful and functional pieces of earthenware. Burleigh Pottery is a renowned pottery manufacturer in Stoke-on-Trent.
The company’s story is one of passion and dedication. William and Rosemary Dorling fell in love with Burleigh Pottery’s products and eventually bought the company in 1999. They had previously sold Stoke-made earthenware from their home in Hampshire and had developed a deep appreciation for the craft.
The Dorlings’ journey to owning Burleigh Pottery was not easy. The company was facing financial difficulties, and the factory was at risk of being closed. However, they were determined to save it, and they worked tirelessly to secure funding and support from various organizations.
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Their efforts paid off, and today Burleigh Pottery is thriving. The company’s factory, located on the banks of the Trent and Mersey Canal, is a part of the region’s rich industrial heritage. The building, which dates back to 1888, has been preserved to maintain its original character, with many of its original features still intact.
A visit to the factory reveals a fascinating world of pottery-making. The premises are divided into various sections, each with its own specific function. The ‘yards’ outside are cobbled alleys lined with long ranges of buildings, where pipes belch forth gusts of steam and machinery thuds away. Inside, the atmosphere is calm and tidy, with workers dressed in white moving quietly as they go about their tasks.
The process of creating a piece of earthenware involves many stages, each requiring a specific skill set. Workers are highly specialized, and each person is responsible for a particular part of the process. Attention to detail is impressive, with every item being carefully inspected and returned to its designated plank before being moved on to the next stage.
The factory’s archives are a treasure trove of pottery-making history, with thousands of master moulds, including 15,000 master moulds of every single piece of earthenware made by the company since the late 18th century.
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As the Dorlings continue to run Burleigh Pottery, they remain committed to preserving the company’s heritage while also innovating and adapting to the changing times. Their dedication to the craft has ensured that the company remains a vital part of Stoke-on-Trent’s industrial heritage.
Burleigh Pottery’s struggles and eventual turnaround are not unique to the pottery industry. Many companies in the sector have faced similar challenges, and some have not been as fortunate. The Dorlings’ success in reviving Burleigh Pottery can be seen as a reflection of the enduring appeal of traditional craftsmanship and the importance of preserving our industrial heritage.
Today, Burleigh Pottery continues to produce high-quality earthenware, using traditional techniques and materials. The company’s products are highly regarded for their beauty, durability, and functionality, making them a popular choice among consumers. As they look to the future, they remain committed to upholding the company’s traditions while exploring new ways to innovate and grow.
