John Heath Staffordshire decorator circa 1825

by George Heath
(Portland, OR)

John Heath Staffordshire decorator circa 1825:- My great great grandfather is John Heath who was a pottery decorator in about 1825 at Staffordshire. I'm wondering if there is any way to access Staffordshire records about him or if the wares he decorated had a mark of his. To actually see a piece he decorated would be a family holy grail of sorts. Here is a quote from a family history. It is the only clue we have. Any information anyone could offer would be greatly appreciated.

Then she married John HEATH (1825). He worked at the potteries in Staffordshire, England. His trade was a decorator of china, besides taking care of his profession, he was a good singer and sang in the church of England for twelve years. They were very happy. Barbara had previously had such a busy life that after she was married, she did not have enough work to keep her occupied, so she decided to study to be a woman doctor. She was small in stature, but very alert. Her hair was dark, her eyes were blue.

Thanks most kindly,
George Heath

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Reply by Peter (admin)

Sorry to take a while to answer - been hectic.

Thanks for your interesting query, I really appreciate the time and trouble you took to contact the site and share.

Just looking at your contribution now. Great contribution, thanks. What a story! Potters through the generations - a tradition still kept alive even today - by YOU!!

Love the connection to John Heath of Burslem!

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George's reply

did google John Heath of Burslem and was astounded. I thought perhaps John Heath was perhaps a decorator at best. What a wealth of information you are!

As a ceramicist I look forward to reading your newsletter as well.

Thanks Again,
George Heath

George

Note from Peter:- Go and see George's great site and if you want to be cheered up, see the 21st Century Heath Pottery in action. And I mean action!

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Further Comment by Peter:-

I can give you all I know (from Goddens):-

There are many Heaths in Stoke apart form John who started his business we know in 1809 at the Sytch Pottery, Burslem, Staffordshire. That business finished in 1823. His mark was known to be just "Heath" impressed.

Other firms who traded with the Heath surname (all probably inter-related) were:-

Job Heath, Stoke - early 18th C

Joshua Heath, Hanley - early 18th C

J. Heath, Hanley - 1700 to 1800

Joseph Heath, Tunstall - 1845 to 1853

Joseph Heath & Co, Tunstall - 1828 to 1841

Thomas Heath, Burslem - 1812 to 1835

J. E. Heath, Burslem 1951 - ?

Others include:- Heath & Blackhurst, Heath & Greatbatch, Heath & Son etc etc.

Quite a dynasty!

Good luck in carrying on the family tradition!

Please enjoy all the free resources of this site and welcome!

Peter (admin)

p.s. The following page is a 'must see' if you are researching fine china - for value and identification:-

Researching the identity and value of antique and vintage fine china.

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