Artifacts in Focus: Stoneware with Watchspring Motif (April 15, 2020)

These sherds from the ASNJ’s Dunham House excavations are excellent examples of American stoneware. This distinctive type of stoneware originated during the eighteenth century in the American colonies, and it was composed of a generally gray or brown-colored body with blue painted or incised decorations and a salt-glaze finish. This form evolved from German traditions when multiple potters emigrated to the New World during the early 1700s and established local potteries, producing ceramics with familiar styles for a new market. New Jersey has a rich history of local ceramic production, and was one of the greatest producers of American stoneware.

One of the most important and influential potteries in 18th century America was established by the Morgan family in Cheesequake (located in modern-day Old Bridge, NJ). Morgan stoneware was often decorated with a distinctive “watchspring” motif, a brushed-on blue spiral design. These sherds from the Dunham House demonstrate this distinctive Morgan design and are great examples of New Jersey’s significant role in the early pottery industry.

📸: Sadie Dasovich

📩: Richard Adamczyk

Artifacts in Focus: Dunham House Assemblage (April 1, 2020)

More from the ASNJ’s Dunham House archaeological excavation last summer! This is a selection of artifacts that date from the 18th century and are associated with the Samuel Barron household from 1750-1801.

They include (top row) two buckles, a pin, a bone fan blade for a lady's hand fan, a knife, a chisel, a fragment of Morgan Pottery stoneware with a watch spring motif and a tobacco pipe stem; (bottom row) North Midlands hollowware, white salt glazed stoneware plate, dipped white salted glazed stoneware mug, porcelain with landscape motif, manganese mottled mug, and tin glazed earthenware plate. 

The assemblage represents a mix of imported goods and locally produced ceramics. Items like the fan blade, also highlight a household of wealth. Pins, like the one in the image, were used to fasten clothing and paper together and represented the 18th-century equivalent of the modern-day paper clip and velcro. Buckles, like the two in the image, were abound in the 18th century and used to fasten pants, shoes, stockings, leather straps, satchels, luggage, etc. 

📸: Michael Gall