Llanelly Pottery Stories
No visit to Parc Howard Museum is complete without admiring the iconic designs of some of the finest ceramics produced in Cymru.
Our collection of Llanelly Pottery tells a unique story about Llanelli and its people. It follows the history of a local business, generations of workers, traditional Welsh industry and the town itself.
Founded by local businessman William Chambers the pottery was in business from 1839 to 1921. It made a wide range of products, designed to appeal to local people and foreign markets. Its owners were equally comfortable experimenting with new techniques as they were ruthlessly copying rival potteries. Its wares changed over time, from everyday plates and bowls, to gift items, decorative vases and fine wares, bought as symbols of status.
By the 1850s it manufactured 24,000 pottery items a week and employed 100 people. Its products were sold locally as well as in the west of England. Large quantities were also shipped abroad to Europe and to America, Australia and the west coast of Africa.
Llanelly Pottery Learning Resources
Explore the stories of the Llanelly Pottery through our collection of learning resources designed to inspire curiosity, creativity and discovery for learners of all ages.