©1999-2015
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Fall 1999 Presentations
After the September meeting, a tour of the Ephraim Pottery in Deerfield, we resumed regular meetings for October, November and December at the Shorewood Community Center. Presenting for October, were Sandy and John Fiscus, with splendid examples and interesting discussion about Frankoma Pottery. John and Sandy were introduced as premier Frankoma collectors, and we were not disappointed. Founded by one Mr. Frank, we learned about several 1930's marks found on this pottery and that Mr. Frank broke his molds when he retired. Figures, especially those by designer Joseph Taylor, are highly collectible. In November Rose Lindner presented a historical perspective on both the Century House and on the pottery that was produced there. Having grown up with a Century House mug in our kitchen cupboard (it has now been moved to the collectibles cabinet), I especially appreciated learning more about this pottery, as well as the lovely old stone building that graces University Avenue, near our monthly meetings, and that was earlier a tavern . Rose told of how the tavern was purchased by a Chicago potter, Priscilla, who later married Max Howell.
Century House Pottery is unique for the fact that it is only fired once, versus a usual two-step process of first firing to bisque, then with the glaze. Several of the more famous designers that worked on Century House Pottery include Zona Liberace (stepmother of the famous pianist) and artist Aaron Bohrod, whose signature you see above. The pottery, well-known for customized plates, mugs and ashtrays was in production until 1963. Examples can still be seen at the Century House, still run by the Howells. Max Howell ran the business until the mid-1980's, when his son Kirby took over. Priscilla died in 1994 and Max has since remarried. Thanks to Sandy and John, and to Rose for their generous gift of time and energy in bringing these interesting presentations to the club! Kari Kenefick, WPA Press |
