Yessiree, Bob!

That's what you'll exclaim when you see this wonderful whimsical Bob White ware by Red Wing Potteries, Inc. Introduced in 1954, this hand-painted pattern was one of Red Wing's most popular dinnerware lines (some say the pattern got a boost when the "Playboy" February 1956 centerfold featured Playmate of the Month Marguerite Empey breakfasting in bed from a set of Bob White).

 

In 1861, German immigrant John Paul purchased land in Minnesota, planning on farming. Instead, he discovered a vein of clay. Paul had been a potter, and recognizing the value of his find, he used the clay to produce terracotta and stoneware in nearby Red Wing. The early production was mainly utilitarian, such as crocks, jugs, bowls, water coolers, and even sewer pipes. In the early 1930s, the company began producing more decorative and artistic items, with a variety of glazes and shapes, and in 1935, introduced its first line of dinnerware. In 1936, the company was rechristened Red Wing Potteries. It continued the practice of hand-decoration, giving its creations a unique look, and filling the growing demand for quality casual tableware. Charles Murphy, who created the Bob White line, became the head designer for Red Wing in 1941.

However, the company began to struggle following WWII, when inexpensive china and pottery from Japan and other countries began to flood the American market. In 1967, the company closed.

All posted items are for sale as Next-to-New, but things can sell quickly!

857-3435, 3456, 3457, 3458