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Visit N.C.'s pottery paradise
The Charlotte Observer
For decades, North Carolina has enjoyed a reputation as America's pottery capital. See the artists at work in and around Seagrove, the birthplace of traditional Tar Heel pottery, but before you do, get acclimated at the N.C. Pottery Center.

Permanent exhibits showcase hundreds of pieces. Representative examples of pottery, photos, artifacts and memorabilia illustrate the history, development and ongoing traditions of pottery-making in the state.

The collection offers a variety of styles and techniques spanning centuries, from Native American to Colonial to modern pieces straight from the kiln.

Many of the older items come from Old Salem, such as a circa-1760 jar made by noted artisan Gottfried Aust. The collection includes face jugs and grave markers, along with rotating exhibits.

Most potters have shops within a short drive. Often, you can see the artists at work. Pick up a free map at the center.

Many of the potters have family roots that go back to the mid-1700s when the English and Germans settled the area.

Originally, the potters turned out functional, lead-glazed earthenware. After learning of lead's toxicity in the 1820s, Piedmont potters began producing salt-glazed stoneware. In the state's western counties, an alkaline glaze became popular.

When Jacques and Juliana Busbee of Raleigh opened a store in New York City during the 1920s and established the Jugtown Pottery brand, the state's reputation began to grow. As pottery began to appeal to outsiders as collectibles, style and design started to supplant function in importance.

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 Demonstrations are popular at the N.C. Pottery Center, an excellent place to start a tour of the Seagrove area.
PHOTO COURTESY OF N.C. DIVISION OF TOURISM, FILM AND SPORTS DEVELOPMENT

Distance: From Raleigh, Seagrove is about 80 miles, about an hour and 45 minutes, one way.

Getting there: Take U.S. 64 West to the intersection with U.S. 220. Take U.S. 220 South about 11 miles, to exit 45 (Seagrove/N.C. 705). At the end of the exit ramp, turn left and follow the brown highway signs to the center.

Hours: Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Admission: $2, adults; $1, students in grades 9-12; free to members.

Information: (336) 873-8430

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