Pottery Production in Prestonpans and Portobello

The Society is pleased to present this talk by Graeme Cruickshank, 2.30 PM on Saturday 16^th March, 2024 at the Maitlandfield House Hotel, Haddington. “Prestonpans was the acknowledged centre of the Scottish pottery industry in the 18th century led by the Cadells, Gordons and Watsons. This tradition was carried through until the 1930’s “ Talk Summary Throughout almost two centuries when pottery production in Scotland was a major industry, the factories of the Lothian coastal strip played a leading role in its development. A number of townships east of Edinburgh supported thriving potteries, the leading ones being at or close to Prestonpans and Portobello. After introducing the wider Scottish context, particularly around the Forth region, our speaker will give an extensive illustrated appraisal of the range of wares made at the two leading centres of production. The fine designs and colourful decoration presented by such pieces make them a sight to behold ! Graeme Cruickshank MA, AMA, FMA, FSA Scot Our speaker is a prolific researcher, writer, lecturer and broadcaster on a large variety of topics from the sculptural art of the Picts to the history of old Edinburgh. In relation to the latter he was Curator of Local History with Edinburgh City Museums for 15 years. However he has a particular interest in the history of Scottish pottery and has published a number of books on this subject. Non-members welcome – a small cash donation appreciated