Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Historic Pottery Studio in North Carolina
New Salem Pottery, established in 1972 by Hal and Eleanor Pugh, combines centuries-old ceramic traditions with contemporary craftsmanship. Our studio specializes in handcrafted redware and stoneware pottery, drawing inspiration from historical techniques dating back to the 18th century. With over 50 years of experience, we produce both original designs and authentic reproductions of period-specific ceramics. Our work has been featured in academic research, archaeological projects, and historical film productions across the United States. We maintain active collaborations with universities, museums, and historic preservation organizations to advance ceramic heritage studies.Our location in Randleman, North Carolina, sits on a historic 1766 pottery site listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Through meticulous research and hands-on practice, we preserve traditional methods while innovating for modern applications. Our commitment to quality and historical accuracy has made us a trusted resource for cultural institutions and collectors worldwide. Visitors can explore our gallery by appointment to view both contemporary creations and historical replicas. We remain dedicated to educating the public about ceramic history through workshops, consultations, and public exhibitions.
Services
Pottery Production
Historical Reproductions
Ceramic Consultation
Archaeological Collaboration
Gallery Exhibits
Details
- Year established: 1972
Highlights and features
- We maintain continuous family operation since 1972 with generational ceramic expertise
- Our pottery techniques replicate 18th-19th century methods with historical accuracy
- We collaborate with universities and museums on archaeological ceramic research
- Our work has been featured in academic publications and film productions
- We offer direct access to a National Register-listed historic pottery site
Associations and certifications
- National Register of Historic Places
What people say
Historical accuracy
Skilled craftsmanship
Educational value
Unique collection
Family tradition
Services
Historical Reproductions
We recreate pottery from the 16th through 20th centuries using traditional methods. Our reproductions serve museums, film productions, and private collectors seeking authentic period pieces. Each item combines historical research with hands-on craftsmanship.
Archaeological Collaboration
We partner with academic institutions on ceramic studies and archaeological excavations. Our expertise helps identify historical pottery techniques and materials for academic publications and site preservation projects.
Gallery Exhibits
Our Randleman gallery showcases both contemporary works and historical replicas. Visitors by appointment can view our collection and learn about ceramic traditions through our curated exhibits and documentation.
Ceramic Consultation
We provide expert guidance on historic ceramic techniques for museums, filmmakers, and researchers. Our consultation covers material selection, production methods, and historical context for accurate representations.
Pottery Production
We create custom pottery using both traditional and modern techniques. Our production includes functional wares and decorative pieces, with options for historical accuracy or contemporary design elements.
People
Hal E. Pugh
Co-Founder
Hal Pugh has specialized in historical ceramics since establishing New Salem Pottery in 1972. His research on Quaker pottery traditions led to academic publications and collaborations with archaeological teams studying early American ceramics.
Eleanor Minnock-Pugh
Co-Founder
Eleanor Minnock-Pugh co-founded New Salem Pottery in 1972, bringing expertise in stoneware techniques and historical replication. She contributes to archaeological projects and educational programs about traditional ceramic methods and their cultural significance.
Questions
What historical periods do your reproductions cover?
We recreate pottery from the 16th through 20th centuries using authentic methods. Our specialty is 18th-19th century slipware and redware techniques.
Can I visit the pottery studio?
We operate by appointment only. Please contact us through our website or Facebook page to schedule a visit during our open hours.
Do you offer pottery classes or workshops?
We occasionally host workshops on historical pottery techniques. Check our website or social media for current educational program availability.
How is your pottery used by museums?
Our reproductions support living history museums and archaeological research. Institutions use our work for educational demonstrations and accurate historical setting reconstructions.
What makes your pottery historically accurate?
We use traditional materials and methods documented through archaeological research. Our processes replicate pre-industrial techniques including clay preparation and wood-fired kiln practices.
Reviews (1)
Angie Tyner
Aug 20, 2019
Report
New Salem pottery is a quaint little place with an owner who is full of life and very nice. My Mom had a nice time talking to him while we were there. It's not a jumbled up mess all cluttered with pottery like some places are. They have a nice array of beautiful pieces to choose from and the color of they're pottery is gorgeous, I'm not sure that I've seen that color before. You might miss the road like we did on your first time here. They have a sign it's rather small compared to all the bamboo coming up beside of it, the owner says the bamboo is taking over lol. Once you find the road just follow
