Conferences, Forums, and Workshops at Colonial Williamsburg

2010

March 18 – 21

Pottery with a Past

A New Look at Salt-glazed Stoneware Collections, Research, and Archaeology

Recent new discoveries have brought salt-glazed stoneware to the forefront of current collecting and archaeological research. From first English settlement onward, salt-glazed stoneware filled an important role in colonial homes and public houses. Dynamic trade brought a range of manufactured goods, including stoneware, to the New World. During much of the seventeenth century, stoneware bottles and mugs were prized possessions of the wealthiest colonists. But by the third quarter of the eighteenth century, brown, gray, and white stoneware from Germany and England was found everywhere. At that time, it played a role akin to modern-day plastics: ever present and essential, but rarely celebrated. Stoneware was comparatively affordable, extremely durable, readily available, and—in some instances—quite fashionable. This remarkably versatile ceramic also was manufactured successfully in America during the colonial and post-Revolutionary period.

Join Colonial Williamsburg staff members and distinguished lecturers such as David Barker, David Gaimster, Jonathan Horne, and Rob Hunter as they explore the production and distribution of brown, gray, and white salt-glazed stoneware from Germany, Britain, and America. The program celebrates the publication of Salt-glazed Stoneware in Early America by Janine E. Skerry and Suzanne Findlen Hood, and is timed to coincide with the exhibition “Pottery with a Past: Stoneware in Early America.” The first museum presentation of German, English, and American stoneware made prior to 1800, the exhibit is on view at the DeWitt Wallace Decorative Arts Museum at Colonial Williamsburg.

Salt-glazed Stoneware in Early America, the accompanying exhibition, and this conference are made possible through the generosity of the Richard C. von Hess Foundation.

Download brochure (requires Adobe Acrobat Reader)

Register online
or call 1-800-603-0948

64th Annual Garden Symposium

Timeless Lessons from Historic Gardens

Period gardens at Colonial Williamsburg and other historic sites provide an infinite selection of ideas that can be adapted effectively to the modern home garden. Whether you are interested in designing a formal garden, growing heirloom plants, or making a garden structure, there are many lessons to be learned from historic gardens. Colonial Williamsburg’s 64th annual Garden Symposium will focus on design concepts, gardening techniques, and plant selections that have stood the test of time. Speakers will emphasize the elements of traditional gardens that can be customized easily to smaller, residential settings. The symposium will include both general sessions and optional afternoon activities. Please join us for Timeless Lessons from Historic Gardens.

Download brochure (requires Adobe Acrobat Reader)

Register online
or call 1-800-603-0948

October 17-20

Reconstructing Richard Charlton’s Coffeehouse

2011

January 12-15 and 16-19

Working Wood in the 18th Century

February 6-10

63rd Antiques Forum

March 13-16

Costume Accessories: Head to Toe

2012

January 22-25 and 26-29

Working Wood in the 18th Century

Note: The program is the same number of days as previous years but is scheduled later in January and the days of the week have changed.