The gift of pottery-making lives on

CHARLOTTE, NC (AAPNW) – Ongoing, “The Cole Family: A Dynasty of North Carolina Potters” is an exhibition that for more than 200 years, members of this family have been potting in Randolph, Moore, Lee and Montgomery North Carolina counties. Six generations of Coles are represented in the museum’s permanent collection, with more than 60 of their wares are being shown at the Mint Museum Randolph.

     “In a state filled with multigenerational families of gifted potters, the Coles stand out as one of North Carolina’s most enduring and prolific,” said Brian Gallagher, senior curator of decorative arts at The Mint Museum. “They have contributed enormously to the state’s ceramic traditions through their well-potted objects and their exceptionally beautiful glazes.”

From crocks, jars, and jugs to pitchers, candleholders, and vases, turning pots is one of the oldest and richest craft traditions in North Carolina. As the North Carolina tourist market for decorative ceramics evolved, the Cole family produced an impressive variety of colorfully glazed vases, pitchers, candleholders, and other ceramic pieces.

The deep-rooted legacy of the Cole family of potters began with Raphard Cole, born in 1799. He and his sons produced utilitarian stoneware such as, crocks, jugs, and urns that were needed in an agrarian economy. Later generations distinguished themselves from their forebears by training their daughters and sons on how to turn pots.

For more information call the Mint Museum Randolph at 704.337.2000.