The History Of Burslem (Stoke-on-Trent

Burslem, one of the six towns that make up the city of Stoke-on-Trent in Staffordshire, England, holds a unique place in the history of the region. Often referred to as the “Mother Town” of the Potteries, Burslem boasts a rich industrial heritage, cultural significance, and a long history that stretches back centuries. This blog post delves into the fascinating past of Burslem, exploring its origins, its rise to prominence during the industrial revolution, and its lasting legacy.

Origins and Early History

The history of Burslem dates back to at least the medieval period, with evidence of settlements in the area as early as the Anglo-Saxon era. The town’s name is believed to have derived from the Old English words “Bures” and “Lym,” meaning “the place where the burdock grows near the water.” Situated on a hill, Burslem was strategically located near natural resources, particularly clay and coal, which would later become crucial to its development as a center of pottery production.

During the 12th century, Burslem was a small agricultural community. The Domesday Book of 1086 mentions nearby Tunstall, but Burslem itself is not listed, suggesting that it was not a significant settlement at that time. However, by the 14th century, the town began to grow, and its economy gradually shifted towards pottery production.

The Birthplace of the Pottery Industry

Burslem’s transformation from a rural village to a bustling industrial town began in the late 17th and early 18th centuries. The discovery of high-quality clay in the area, combined with the availability of coal for firing kilns, made Burslem an ideal location for pottery manufacturing. The town soon became a hub for potters, who began to produce a variety of earthenware products.

The town’s most famous resident, Josiah Wedgwood, played a pivotal role in revolutionizing the pottery industry. Born in Burslem in 1730, Wedgwood was a skilled potter and an innovative businessman. He established the Wedgwood company in 1759, which quickly gained a reputation for producing high-quality ceramics. Wedgwood’s inventions, such as creamware and Jasperware, were highly sought after, both in Britain and abroad. His success helped to elevate Burslem’s status as a center of excellence in pottery production.

By the late 18th century, Burslem was at the heart of what became known as “The Potteries,” a collective term for the six towns (Burslem, Tunstall, Hanley, Stoke, Fenton, and Longton) that specialized in ceramic production. The town’s population grew rapidly, and its landscape was transformed by the construction of potteries, kilns, and workers’ housing.

The Industrial Revolution and Expansion

The Industrial Revolution in the 19th century further accelerated Burslem’s growth. Advances in technology, such as the steam engine, allowed for greater production capacity, and the construction of the Trent and Mersey Canal in 1777 provided a crucial transportation link for the export of pottery goods. The canal connected Burslem to the wider national and international markets, ensuring that its products could reach customers far and wide.

The town’s skyline became dominated by towering bottle kilns, the iconic structures that were used to fire pottery. These kilns were a common sight in Burslem, and at the height of the industry, there were hundreds of them scattered throughout The Potteries. Burslem’s streets were bustling with activity as workers, traders, and merchants went about their daily business.

In addition to its industrial significance, Burslem also developed a rich cultural life. The town was home to several notable buildings, including the Old Town Hall, built in 1857, and St. John’s Church, which dates back to 1717. The town also had a strong literary connection, being the birthplace of novelist Arnold Bennett, who immortalized the area in his works as “The Five Towns.”

Decline and Legacy

The 20th century brought significant challenges to Burslem and the wider Potteries region. The decline of the British ceramics industry, due to competition from abroad and changing consumer preferences, led to the closure of many of the town’s potteries. By the mid-20th century, the landscape of Burslem had changed dramatically, with many of the iconic bottle kilns demolished and factories shuttered.

Despite these challenges, Burslem’s heritage has not been forgotten. Efforts to preserve the town’s industrial and cultural history have been ongoing, with several key sites and buildings being protected and restored. The Burslem School of Art, for example, has been repurposed as a center for creative industries, while the Middleport Pottery, a working Victorian pottery factory, offers visitors a glimpse into the town’s rich ceramic heritage.

In recent years, Burslem has also seen a resurgence of interest in its history and culture. Local initiatives and community groups have worked to revitalize the town, promoting its unique character and attractions. The annual Burslem Festival celebrates the town’s heritage with a series of events, including exhibitions, workshops, and performances.

Conclusion

Burslem’s history is a testament to the resilience and creativity of its people. From its humble beginnings as a rural village to its rise as the “Mother Town” of the Potteries, Burslem has played a central role in shaping the history of Stoke-on-Trent and the broader ceramics industry. While the town has faced its share of challenges, its rich heritage continues to inspire and inform its future. As Burslem moves forward, it does so with a deep appreciation for the past, ensuring that the legacy of the potteries remains alive for generations to come.