A Very Brief History of Fiesta Ware
I came across so many fun historical facts while researching SILENT WOMEN, and this is one I'd like to share with readers who love history and the small details that fill historical novels. A good deal of research is often behind a single reference to a book, a flower, a necklace.
In this case, I'd like to share how the colorful art deco collectible tableware, Fiesta (featured in Part 3), came to be. It was first introduced to the public in the US in 1936 by the Homer Laughlin China Works, at the Pittsburgh China & Glass Show in January. After improved kilns were introduced, the company was able to produce tableware faster and on a larger scale.
Colors at this time included red, yellow, cobalt blue, green, and ivory.
During the Great Depression, the design director Frederick Hurten Rhead created his most iconic design, Fiesta, in an attempt to brighten the lives of families as they ate whatever they could manage to serve on the colorful pottery dishes. It was also less expensive than traditional dinnerware.
During WWII, the company slowed down production and produced tableware for the armed forces. But once the war ended, they ramped up production of Fiesta ware to, once again, brighten people's lives.
It continues to brighten our lives in new colors that match contemporary trends and is still highly collectible (see the booth display below, found at Sandwich Antiques Center Gallery in Sandwich, MA). Fans love to display them in kitchens and pantries. Thanks to Mr. Rhead!
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