The Southwest regional team visited South Central Texas in February to assess potential new sites and steward currently protected sites. A trip to the Meyer Pottery Kiln Preserve was particularly fruitful. The site has research potential for the study of regional pottery, as Meyer Pottery Kiln was a leading producer in stoneware, including creamery crocks, utilitarian and souvenir wares, flowerpots, glazed pieces, preservation jars, butter churns, jugs, bowls, and pitchers. The team met with local Conservancy members who are active site stewards at the site, which is tucked in a rural residential neighborhood. Site stewards help maintain the site’s security and prevent trespassing. While there, the team assessed fencing needs to further protect the site from wandering wildlife and passersby.
The land was first purchased in 1887 for only $25 by Franz Shutlz, his son in law, William Meyer, and William’s father, who was a master potter. With nearby clay sources on Elm Creek and its tributaries, the kiln thrived and produced crockery for more than 70 years, finally ending production in 1964. The original house, which was also the post office and grocery store, still stands today and is currently occupied. The 2-acre parcel was donated to the Conservancy by the Meyer family in 2017 and is listed in the National Register of Historic Places.
