Pfaltzgraff facts for kids

Pfaltzgraff Folk Art stoneware (1977 to 1983) modeled on early American salt glazed pottery; the stenciled pattern "Yorktowne" is Pfalzgraff's most popular.

Pfaltzgraff America chargers designed by David Walsh in collaboration with Museum of American Folk Art, 1983 to 1985

Pfaltzgraff is an American kitchenware brand of dinnerware, serveware, drinkware and flatware.

History

It is commonly reported that the Pfaltzgraff company was founded in 1811 in York County, Pennsylvania, by several members of the Pfaltzgraff family who were potters. The most notable member was Johann George Pfaltzgraff, who arrived in York County from Germany in 1833. Johann knew the trade well and passed his skills on to his seven sons. After Johann died in 1873, the family business was carried on by three of his children: John, George, and Henry. The business became official in 1889 when George and Henry started a partnership that would become The Pfaltzgraff Co. The first factory was built in 1895.

The business continued to grow, and in 1960, Pfaltzgraff opened their first retail store under the name Pottery Hill. During the 1950s and 1960s, the products were mostly sold in specialty stores, but in the 1970s, the business made a strategic decision to sell in higher-end department stores, such as G. Fox & Co. and Macy's.

The Pfaltzgraff Co. was sold to Lifetime Brands, Inc. in 2005. At its height, the company owned and operated 67 stores throughout the U.S., as well as an online presence at www.pfaltzgraff.com. In 2009, Lifetime Brands opted to close all 67 stores and maintain sales only through their Internet presence.

The company continues to produce a product line currently consisting of dinnerware, glassware, flatware, and other kitchen preparatory and cooking tools.

Cultural impact

Several lines of Pfaltzgraff glazed earthenwares have featured among the 100 most popular ceramic designs.

A large mural depicting Pfaltzgraff's history was painted in York, Pennsylvania in 1998.