Image Ref : DRA 0557.tif

Aller Vale Pottery 1897

Abbotskerswell - Employees of Aller Vale Pottery 1897, in grounds of 'Moor Park' home of John Phillips. Back 1 George Hill, 2 James Main(expert decorator learnt at A.V.) 8 J.Mears, 9 R.Anning (foreman bowler). 2nd back row-2 Thos Lewis(apron indicates 'thrower), 3 Chas Gill, 4 Wm Geo Howard(decorator, also serious oil painter & wood carver), 10 Daniel Main. Centre row-all unknown. 2nd front row-1in suit Herbert Edward Bulley(driver for AV became Secc of Longpark). 2 Samuel 'Reb' Bradford(spec.scroll decoration), 8 check cap Samuel Hicks, 9 Chas Henry Fletcher Collard(decorator supreme),10 Samuel Main(worked on wheel), 11 F.Cockram (foreman's bowler).11 standing Thos Willcocks (probably administrator). Front row-all unknown boys, probably sons of the craftsmen, learning the trade. Aller Vale Pottery was formed in 1865 on the northern edge of Kingskerswell (onthe site of an ancient "pot" works) and was in business until 1932 although the name continued until 1962 for mass produced tourist motto ware. DRA 1313 ABK 010