Question:
Gosh… I don’t know where to start. I am an Indiana resident. My Red Wing passion began a few years ago and I have several red stamped wing crocks (even a 30 gallon). Now, however, a am interested in the making & history of Bee Sting salt glazed crocks. I have several books about Red Wing stoneware and one on Indiana potteries. So here are my questions: 1. In the attached pictures, which crocks are Red Wing? Some that I THOUGHT were Red Wing are actually depicted in a book called Indiana Stoneware by Peggy Loar 1974. 2. How can I value my whole collection for insurance purposes? 3. Where can I find more information about mid-west potteries from 1800-1900. I know the basic history behind the Western Stoneware and the Red Wing unions but I want more specific information. Thanks for any help you can offer.

Answer: I believe the photo before this one of the 3 & 6 gallon crocks are yours also. In looking at your photos, the only piece I believe is Red Wing is the 3 gallon beehive jug with the lazy 8 target mark. The problem with this mark is that most of the Midwest potters used it. Also potters moved around and therefore you could have a Red Wing potter who moved to Indiana and began working in their potteries. Therefore you need to look at a number of things to best determine who made what piece. In crocks the way the handles are applied is a good way to tell if it is Red Wing as well as how the handle on a jug is attached. In all pieces, clay is a big factor. Red Wing had some of the best and purest clay which had little to no imperfections. Where clay from Ohio will usually have small brown spec’s in it. In your question to value you collection for insurance purposes, I can only give you what is required by my insurance company. My insurance carrier requires an antique dealer appraisal. Indiana may be different. You will need to contact your carrier and see what they require. Then make sure you find someone that is experience in the value of stoneware to provide you with a realistic value. In finding information on Mid-west potteries, my best advise to you would be to use Goggle. You should be able to find either a site or books on Mid-west stoneware. Al Kohlman