About Hampshire Pottery

Hampshire Pottery began production in 1871, and was founded by James Taft. In 1904, Cadmon Robertson joined Hampshire Pottery and was soon placed in charge of production until his death in 1914. Two years later, Taft sold Hampshire Pottery to George Morton, who was previously with Grueby Pottery. Hampshire pottery continued for only a year under Morton’s direction and was closed in 1917. After the end of World War I, Morton reopened Hampshire Pottery with primary production being white china for hotels and restaurants. Hampshire Pottery closed permanently in 1923.

Hampshire Pottery first introduced the widely popular matte green glaze in 1883. Robertson developed over 900 glazes while with Hampshire Pottery and was responsible for many of the forms.  Early pottery was marked with a red "Hampshire Pottery, J.S. Taft & Co." while later pieces contained an impressed "Hampshire Pottery." Markings may also include paper labels and a "M" inside an "O," which were designed by Robertson for his wife, Emoretta.