The Adams Family Name and English Potters

Adams holds a significant place in the history of English pottery, representing three distinct branches of a family dedicated to the craft. Over the 18th and 19th centuries, these potters contributed to the development of Anglo-Saxon ceramics, producing a variety of wares that catered to domestic and international markets.

The Three Branches of Adams Potters

William Adams of Brick House (1748–1831)

William Adams, the earliest known potter of the Adams lineage, was born in Brick House, Staffordshire. While his industry contributions were not groundbreaking, his involvement set the foundation for later generations of Adams potters.

William Adams of Stoke (1772–1829)

William Adams, born in Stoke-on-Trent, is more prominent in the Adams pottery lineage. His most significant contribution was the production of flow blue ware, a highly decorative pottery that became immensely popular in the United States. His son, William Adams (1798–1865), continued this tradition, further expanding the reach of Adams ceramics.

William Adams of Greengates

Another notable Adams potter, William Adams of Greengates, honed his craft under the guidance of Josiah Wedgwood. Drawing inspiration from Wedgwood’s innovations, he specialized in creamware and created household pottery that strongly resembled Wedgwood’s iconic dark blue jasperware. His son, Benjamin Adams (d. 1820), carried on the family tradition, ensuring the longevity of their distinctive pottery style.

William Adams & Sons: A Lasting Legacy

Founded in 1769, William Adams & Sons became a well-known pottery firm headquartered in Tunstall and Stoke, Staffordshire. Renowned for its high-quality ceramics, the company gained recognition for producing blue-and-white pottery, drawing inspiration from Chinese porcelain.

Throughout the 20th century, William Adams & Sons continued manufacturing tableware, often inspired by historical events or 18th-century designs. Notable series include:

• The 1913 Shakespearian Series – featuring motifs from Shakespeare’s plays.
• The Cries of London – depicting scenes from Victorian London.
• Children’s Tableware – adorned with Victorian-inspired themes, country scenes, floral motifs, and fruit designs.

The Wedgwood Acquisition

The enduring reputation of William Adams & Sons led to its acquisition by Wedgwood in 1966. Despite this change in ownership, the Adams name persisted, and the company remains a respected part of England’s ceramic heritage today.

Conclusion

The Adams family’s pottery legacy is a testament to the evolution of English ceramics. From flow blue ware to Wedgwood-inspired creamware, their craftsmanship has left an indelible mark on the industry. Even under Wedgwood’s umbrella, the Adams name continues to symbolize quality and tradition in pottery.

Sources

Byars, M., & Riley, T. (2004). The design encyclopedia. Laurence King Publishing. https://amzn.to/3ElmSlL

Terraroli, V. (2002, January 2). Skira Dictionary of Modern Decorative Arts. https://doi.org/10.1604/9788884910257

William Adams (potter). (2021, April 15). In Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/William_Adams_(potter)

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