'Shenango China' legacy exhibit opens at Hoyt
NEW CASTLE — The Hoyt Center for the Arts' newest exhibition “Preserving a Legacy: Shenango China” is a testament to the artistry and craftsmanship of generations of former area residents once employed at the ceramics manufacturer.
The exhibit incorporates all aspects, from design and conceptualization in original drawings, pattern books and decals to production and sales in photographs and marketing materials.
The exhibit continues through March 1.
Begun in 1901 as the New Castle China Co., the pottery became officially known as Shenango China in 1912. James Smith Sr., a partner in the Smith-Kirk-Hutton hardware store, is credited as the founder.
During World War I the company experienced steady expansion manufacturing commercial dinnerware. The advent of World War II brought further growth and expansion with an agreement to produce the famous Theodore Haviland dinnerware in America, as well as making ceramic parts for landmines.
By 1940, Shenango had invested in a new division incorporated as Castleton China in New York. Castleton produced fine dinnerware and a contemporary line of china designed by Eva Zeisel under the auspices of the Museum of Modern Art.
Shenango China changed hands many times. It was owned by many companies including Anchor Hocking, the Newell Co., Syracuse China and finally the Pfaltzgraff Co., which closed the plant in 1991.Represented in the exhibition are examples of presidential ware, the museum line, the Castleton Studio wares, railroad china, and fine and everyday dining china. The exhibition also includes original artist renderings, decals, photographs, pattern books and other articles representing New Castle's heritage.The Hoyt Center is at 124 E. Leasure Ave.Hours are 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays.Admission is free.For information, call 724-652-2882 or visit www.hoytartcenter.org.
