Watcombe Pottery, Torquay, England, founded 1871

The Watcombe Terra Cotta Clay Company was founded in 1875 by G. J. Allen, after he discovered a particularly fine clay in the grounds of Watcombe House near Torquay. The company was initially known for its production of art pottery, and its wares were often decorated with floral motifs. However, it soon began to produce a wider range of wares, including souvenir pottery, household pottery, and architectural terracotta. The Watcombe pottery was very successful, and its wares were exhibited internationally within a few years.

"Torquay Pottery" is a generic term used to describe the products of the various potteries that were established in the Torquay area following the success of The Watcombe Terra Cotta Clay Company. These potteries used local sources of red Devon clay to produce a wide range of wares, including art pottery, souvenir pottery, and household pottery. "

The Watcombe pottery expanded rapidly, employing a vast workforce by more... the end of the decade. In 1884, the company was bought by Evans & Co, and in 1901 it was acquired by Hexter, Humpherson & Co, who amalgamated it with Aller Vale Pottery. The new pottery was known as Royal Aller Vale & Watcombe Co.

The Watcombe Pottery continued to produce pottery until 1962, when it closed down. less...