An Educational Resource for the Antique Stoneware of Central Pennsylvania
Stoneware pottery was once a necessity in the daily lives of 19th century Americans. These crocks, jugs, and other forms were used to store and serve food and beverages, as well as serving other special functions. Frequently decorated with a blue cobalt glaze, these items were often given unique decorations by their creators. Ranging from commonplace to highly elaborate, blue-decorated stoneware has become a highly collectible form of art that is unique to American folk history.
Maintained by the author of “Decorated Stoneware of Cowden“, this website is both a storefront and an educational reference for those seeking to learn more about the antique stoneware of both Harrisburg and Central Pennsylvania.
About The Author
Matthew Miller was born and raised in Central Pennsylvania in a family which both collected and celebrated antiques of many kinds. As a young adult, he found himself given the unique opportunity to photograph many of the finest collections of antique blue-decorated stoneware from Harrisburg, PA known to exist. This opportunity, paired with countless hours of research and writing, led to the publication of “Decorated Stoneware of Cowden” in 2001. Eighteen years later, Matthew is a licensed pharmacist and a craft brewery owner. He still actively collects and researches antique stoneware.
About The Book
“Decorated Stoneware of Cowden, and the Stoneware Potteries of Harrisburg Pennsylvania 1852-1924” is a full color, coffee-table sized, reference book on the antique stoneware of Harrisburg, PA. At 176 pages in length, it is the most detailed book ever written on the subject.
Get In Touch
Since authoring Decorated Stoneware of Cowden, it has been my pleasure to serve as a resource for questions on the antique stoneware of Central Pennsylvania. Please contact me with questions, comments, or appraisal needs at:
