Nestled in the heart of Brampton, the Alma Pottery was a testament to the area’s rich industrial heritage. Established in 1854 by Samuel Lowe, James Knowle and a Mr Blake, this pottery was one of several in the region that capitalized on the abundant local clay and coal resources to produce high-quality saltglaze ceramics. Known for crafting functional yet beautiful stoneware, including water filters, kitchen pots, and jars, Alma Pottery played a vital role in the daily lives of households across the Midlands and beyond. Its products, often referred to as “Brampton Ware,” were celebrated for their durability and distinctive honey-colored or dark brown finishes, reflecting the skilled craftsmanship of the era.
The Alma Pottery, like many in Brampton, thrived during the 19th century, contributing to Chesterfield’s reputation as a hub of pottery manufacturing. The pottery’s operations were deeply intertwined with the community, employing local workers who formed a tight-knit group, often collaborating through the Potters’ Association at the Star Inn. While the Alma Pottery ceased operations by the early 20th century due to changing technologies and material shortages, its legacy endures through collections at the Chesterfield Museum and the continued work of modern potters like Janine Mannion-Jones, who keeps the Brampton pottery tradition alive at JMJ Pottery on Chatsworth Road. This historical craft continues to inspire, connecting past and present through the art of clay.
