Royal Sutherland tea service - Athena

by Marilee Lamont Kujat
(Mt. Pleasant, Michigan)

In 1984, after finishing my first year at college my father took me to London for vacation. This was my first trip to Europe and I was very excited. We toured many of the historical areas of England, and while we were touring, I purchased a HM Royal Sutherland tea service for 8, complete with tea pot and plates.

After many years, and many moves, I am now using that set and would like more information concerning it. The pattern, if I am reading the box it is contained in (the original box it came in) is Athena. Would you be able to share any information concerning the history of the company and my pattern with me? Every time I use one of the beautiful cups, I think of that wonderful trip with my father.

Thank you.

Marilee Lamont-Kujat
Mt. Pleasant, Michigan
United States

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Peter (admin) says:-

Many thanks for your charming story. There is much written on the history of the Sutherland brand on this website already - just use the in-house search facility to find all the entries and take your time to read up. The Sutherland backstamp came about due to the Sutherland Works from which the Hudson & Middleton firm operated. Based in Normacot Road, not, as you might expect, nearby Sutherland Road, the works were named after The Duke of Sutherland who was a local landowner and benefactor of the area.

In fact, if you go to Normacot Road, Longton, on Google Street view, you can see a very clear street view of the splendid Grade 2 listed buildings of the Sutherland works. While you are there, go to Sutherland Road where many splendid old Victorian Pottery buildings can still be seen, many of them empty or unused in this day and age, unfortunately.

Aynsley, the famous old bone china porcelain firm still operate from there Sutherland Road, showing Longtons's long history and pride. I spend quite a bit of time in Stoke on Trent and it is always a thrill to see the surviving firms flourishing. Of course, my own sculptures help this cause, and are still made in Hanley, Stoke on Trent (always a rival to Longton), so check them out too.

Peter (admin)