Red Wing's rich history with

The Pottery Place

The Pottery Place in Red Wing, MN is an experience you won't forget.

1877

Construction Begins

History of the Pottery Place in Red Wing, MN

Construction has begun on the original structure, to house the Minnesota Stoneware Company’s production.

1877

1878

Building Construction Completed

Production begins on a variety of stoneware products.

1878

February 8, 1900

Massive Fire

A fire erupts burning the building down to the foundations. Although the exact cause is unkown, it is believed that a newly installed gas kiln could be the cause of the fire.

February 8, 1900

June 11, 1900

Building Completely Rebuilt

The demand for the stoneware products produced in The Pottery Place building was so high, that the rebuild of the enormous 4 story building was completed in just 4 years.

June 11, 1900

1930

Tunnel Kiln Built

The tunnel kiln was built and was the longest kiln in the USA at the time.

1930

1946

Stoneware Production Closed

As available materials changed, and households and businesses now turned to plastic containers and large metal vats, the demand for stoneware containers decreased – and the stoneware line produced at The Pottery Place closed down. They still were producing pottery, but instead focused on dinnerware items that were still commonly used in households.

1946

1967

Red Wing Pottery Goes on Strike

Over labor issues, the Red Wing Pottery workers go on strike. And although there were talks of a resolution, the plant eventually just shut down completely. Ending the production of Red Wing Pottery produced at The Pottery Place.

1967

1967 - 1980

Building Sat Vacant

During this period the building sat largely vacant, although it was used by various people (it is unsure whether or not they were authorized to do so) to store grain, boats, and a variety of other things.

1967 - 1980

August, 1982

The Building Gets a New Life

The building was renovated and brought up to modern safety codes, bringing new life into this historic building. It housed outlet stores, restaurants, offices, apartments, and retail shops.

August, 1982

March 1, 2007

A Change in Ownership

The building was purchased by new owners, the outlet stores were closed down but the restaurants, other retail stores, offices and apartments remained. Soon after additional apartments were added and the vision for the historic space became fully realized as a complete and charming experience.

March 1, 2007

Present