North Devon Pottery and Its Export to America in the 17th Century

"North Devon Pottery and Its Export to America in the 17th Century" by C. Malcolm Watkins is a historical exploration of the unexpected role that North Devon ceramics played in 17th-century America, revealing the cultural and economic links between England and its colonies. Focusing on pottery from Barnstaple and Bideford, the account highlights archaeological finds from Jamestown and Plymouth, showing how these everyday items shaped the lives of early American colonists. Two main pottery types, the detailed sgraffito ware and the more rugged gravel-tempered ware, are examined for their design, production, and importance in both England and America, building a picture of North Devon's surprising influence during a key period of change.