Did you know that there is a unique Minton Tile Ceiling in the middle of Central Park New York? The 15,000 individual tiles that adorn Bethesda Terrace were made in Stoke-on-Trent during the 1860s. This is just one of the many fascinating stories about Stoke-on-Trent’s historic tile industry that local people will explore and share as part of a new project called ‘The Potteries Tile Trail’.
The Tiles and Architectural Ceramics Society are leading this exciting partnership project. We have been successful in gaining a £10,000 grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) as part of their national All Our Stories initiative. This is great news – it is the first successful HLF bid that TACS has achieved and by far the most external funding the organisation has gained in our 30year history!
Local people will have the opportunity to join a research team who will explore the historic and present day stories behind the City’s internationally significant industry.
This team will then share their findings to the wider community through public presentation events in each of the six towns. The wider community will be encouraged to add to the stories with their knowledge and memories.
The stories gathered will contribute to the development of The Potteries Tile Trail – a dedicated booklet and website resource featuring a series of self-guided walks that aim to encourage others to explore the amazing story of Stoke-on-Trent’s historic and present day tile industry.
For more information please contact Danny Callaghan: danny@mcardlecallaghan.com
