Pfaltzgraff facts for kids
| Industry | Kitchenware |
|---|---|
| Predecessor | The Pfaltzgraff Co. |
| Founded | 1811 in York County, Pennsylvania, United States |
| Founder | Johann George Pfaltzgraff |
| Parent | Lifetime Brands |
Pfaltzgraff is a famous American brand that makes kitchenware like plates, bowls, cups, and silverware. For over 200 years, families have used Pfaltzgraff dishes for their everyday meals and special occasions. The company is well-known for its strong and beautiful stoneware pottery.
Contents
The History of Pfaltzgraff
The story of Pfaltzgraff begins a long time ago in York County, Pennsylvania. It's a great example of a small family business that grew into a major American brand.
A Family of Potters
The Pfaltzgraff family moved to the United States from Germany in the early 1800s. The first potter in the family, Johann George Pfaltzgraff, set up a simple potter’s wheel and a kiln (a special oven for baking clay) on his family's farm in 1811.
In the beginning, their market was very local. They sold their pottery to people who lived close enough to travel to the farm by horse and wagon and return home in the same day.
Building a Company
As the years went by, the family's pottery became more popular. In 1889, two brothers, George and Henry Pfaltzgraff, decided to turn their family craft into a real business. They built their first factory in 1894, which allowed them to make much more pottery than before.
The company was owned by the Pfaltzgraff family for many generations. In 2005, it was sold to another company called Lifetime Brands, Inc., which continues to sell Pfaltzgraff products today.
Famous Pfaltzgraff Designs
Pfaltzgraff is famous for its stoneware collections, which are known for being durable and stylish. Some of their designs have become classics in American homes.
What are the Most Popular Patterns?
Over the years, Pfaltzgraff has created hundreds of different patterns. Some of the most beloved and well-known collections include:
- Yorktowne: This is Pfaltzgraff's most popular pattern. It features a simple blue stencil design on a gray-white background.
- Folk Art: Inspired by early American salt-glazed pottery, this pattern has a charming, rustic look.
- Village: This pattern has a cozy, hand-crafted feel with a simple brown design.
- America: This collection was created with the help of the Museum of American Folk Art and features patriotic and folk art themes.
How to Identify Pfaltzgraff Pottery
You can usually tell if a dish is made by Pfaltzgraff by looking at the bottom or the back. Most pieces have a special stamp. Older, vintage pieces often have a stamp with a small castle logo and the words "Pfaltzgraff USA."
While the company doesn't publish a full list of every item it has ever made, dedicated collectors have created detailed online archives to help people identify and learn about different Pfaltzgraff pieces. Because of its long history and beautiful designs, many people enjoy collecting vintage Pfaltzgraff pottery.
