Hadley Pottery
The timeless talent that became a family tradition
M.A. Hadley History
Owing to the abundance of ancient clay deposits in the region, Louisville has been a center of pottery-making for generations. Out of this proud tradition, Mary Alice Hadley established one of Louisville’s most iconic and well-known potteries. The story begins in the early 1900’s. Mary Alice Hadley was born into a family of clay tile makers where her knowledge of working with clay first developed. Exhibiting an early interest in art and design, she ultimately became a widely recognized painter, winning numerous awards and acclaim from New York to Los Angeles.
Experience the joy of owning a piece of Hadley Pottery.
Discover the perfect blend of artistry, tradition, and functionality. Whether you are looking for the perfect gift or want to enhance your own collection, our pottery is crafted to be cherished for generations.
Shop nowI have loved and used Hadley for forty five years and it has always been a pleasure to use. It is iconic. I am overjoyed that the company has been purchased. I can’t wait to visit in 2023.
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Curated just for you
The Hadley’s at Home.
Mary Alice Hadley created most of our current designs and all designs are inspired by M.A. Hadley. Every artist was trained by a protégé of Mrs. Hadley. Genuine Hadley stoneware has the M.A. Hadley hand-painted signature on the bottom or side of the piece.
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Stay up-to-date on all the new happenings at Hadley.
Hadley Pottery
A community of craftspeople.
Each piece of Hadley Pottery tells a story, bearing the mark of Louisville skilled artisans who meticulously paint and craft every detail by hand. The timeless designs and vibrant patterns have become synonymous with the Louisville aesthetic, reflecting the distinctive charm and character of the city.
Explore Hadley
From the same collection
From bowls to mugs, each piece in this collection tells a unique story.
FAQ
Explore the heart of Hadley Pottery in our FAQ.
How do I care for my ware
Hadley Pottery is dishwasher and microwave safe on low settings. Do not use high wattage in your microwave and wait several minutes before removing from dishwasher or microwave.
How can I tell if the pottery is an original M.A. Hadley piece?
Mary Alice Hadley created most of our current designs and all designs are inspired by M.A. Hadley. Every artist was trained by a protégé of Mrs. Hadley. Genuine Hadley stoneware has the M.A. Hadley hand-painted signature on the bottom or side of the piece.
Is the pottery lead-free?
Yes
Does Hadley Pottery come in any other colors?
Some patterns contain accents of pink, green and yellow; however, “Hadley blue” is our signature color. The combination of extremely high firing temperatures, the white overglaze, and the absence of lead, are the primary factors limiting our colors. This very same combination of factors also yields a highly durable and desirable pottery. The glazes are compounded and ground at the Pottery on Story Avenue in Louisville and are all lead and cadmium free. The dominantly blue, whimsical designs are consistent with Mary Alice Hadley’s originals.
Can I return my product?
If you are not satisfied with your purchase, you may return it, with a receipt, for a full refund of the pottery within 30 days of purchase. Shipping charges are not refundable.Customer is responsible for all shipping expenses. Please include your invoice number, reason for return, and request for credit or exchange. You may email or call us at the above numbers should you have questions. Seconds and Sales from our Factory Sales Room may not be returned or exchanged.
How does stoneware differ from other forms of pottery?
Everyday tableware will either be made in earthenware (low-fired clay) or in stoneware (high-fired clay). Earthenware is white and porous clay that is fired at a temperature of about 1915 degrees Fahrenheit. Earthenware is usually called “ceramics” or “ceramic ware.” Stoneware is stronger clay that is fired to a high temperature (about 2100 degrees Fahrenheit) and becomes vitreous. It can then be left undecorated or decorated with colored glazes with an optional clear glaze coating and re-fired. Stoneware will always have an unglazed portion on the bottom surface where the piece comes in contact with the kiln and no glaze remains. Stoneware is clay that when fired to maturity becomes a sturdy, chip resistant material suitable for using in cooking, baking, storing liquids, and serving.
How durable is Hadley pottery?
Hadley pottery is dishwasher, oven, and microwave safe, using proper care. Dishwasher heat will not harm Hadley. It is best to allow cooling before removing from dishwasher. Also, take care in loading Hadley in dishwasher in such a manner that pieces do not touch each other. Stoneware is sensitive to thermal shock. See below for specific tips to avoid thermal shock when baking with Hadley Pottery.
Can I bake with my Hadley Pottery?
Yes!
Hadley pie plates, porringers, casseroles, and other baking dishes are oven-usable with reasonable care. Avoid the risk of thermal shock by following these simple guidelines.
To avoid the risk of heat shock:
Never transfer stoneware directly from the freezer to the oven. Thermal shock will likely result, damaging or ruining your stoneware.
Place room-temperature item and contents in a room temperature oven and bring up to desired temperature gradually.
Do not place Hadley Pottery in direct contact with flame or electric heating element.
Do not use in a broiler
Contact Us
Do you have any question?
If you do not find the answer in our FAQ, you can send us a message by filling the form below.
I have loved and used Hadley for forty five years and it has always been a pleasure to use. It is iconic. I am overjoyed that the company has been purchased. I can’t wait to visit in 2023.
