Folk Art Museum, Shenandoah Valley, Virginia, Genealogy


Introduction Exhibits Genealogy Bookstore Contact Information Calendar of Events Historical Society Special Projects	Ceramics The ceramics on display at the Center are examples of ceramic vessels made by potters local to the Shenandoah Valley. Jars, crocks and other pieces were used for preserving foods, holding liquids or dry goods, as well as for more decorative purposes. The decorative cobalt blue designs painted on much 19th century Valley pottery reflect an attempt to beautify these everyday objects. In the image at right, the One Gallon Stoneware Jar, c1880, attributed to James Shinnick of Rockingham County, has the heart design so often found on Shenandoah Valley folk art.
		The shapes and glazes of other pieces further illustrate the potter's efforts to create a pleasing design, as represented by the Earthenware Flower Pot c1870 attributed to John Schweinfurt of Shenandoah County (far left) in this photograph. Also pictured are a One Quarter Gallon Earthenware Jar c1870 attributed to Emanuel Suter of Rockingham County (center) and an Earthenware Cream Pitcher 1870 attributed to John Schweinfurt of Shenandoah County (right).
	Potters occasionally fashioned ceramic gravestones, incorporating designs also found on quilts, chests and frakturs. On this gravestone from Rockingham County made by John D. Heatwole for his daughter Mary Heatwole in 1853, you can see the pattern of the star, which is repeated often in all types of folk art from the Valley.

Ceramics