- Tags Marks Hallmarks:
- Jonroth
- Pattern:
- Pink Historic Florals & Scenes
- Material:
- Earthenware
- Type or Style:
- Dinner Plate
- Circa:
- Mid-20th century
- Item Width:
- 10 in
- Condition Notes:
- Excellent vintage condition
Vintage red transferware souvenir plate by Adams Pottery (Staffordshire, England) featuring the Natural Bridge of Virginia. Includes portraits of George Washington & Thomas Jefferson, Natural Bridge Hotel, Ancient Arborvitae Tree, and historical scenes. Old English Staffordshire Ware, collectible American history plate, imported for Natural Bridge of Virginia Inc.
This vintage red transferware souvenir plate was produced by Adams Pottery in Staffordshire, England, as part of their Old English Staffordshire Ware line. Created for Natural Bridge of Virginia, Inc., the plate celebrates one of America’s most iconic natural wonders.
At the center is a detailed rendering of the Natural Bridge, a geological marvel of limestone rock soaring over 200 feet high, once described by Thomas Jefferson as “the most sublime of nature’s works.” Surrounding the central scene are finely engraved vignettes, including:
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Portraits of George Washington and Thomas Jefferson, both of whom are closely tied to the site’s history. Jefferson purchased the Natural Bridge from King George III in 1774. Washington, as a young surveyor, is said to have carved his initials in the rock.
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The Ancient Arborvitae Tree, believed to be more than 1,000 years old at the time it was documented.
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The Natural Bridge Hotel, an elegant historic inn that welcomed travelers seeking the natural beauty of Virginia.
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The Old Road to the Natural Bridge (1872), capturing the journey of 19th-century visitors.
The plate’s floral border, typical of Staffordshire wares, frames the imagery in a bold crimson-red transfer print, a color highly prized by collectors.
Backstamped with the Old English Staffordshire Ware crest and the Adams Pottery hallmark, it confirms production in England and importation specifically for the Natural Bridge site.
This collectible plate is more than just a decorative item—it is a piece of cultural heritage that ties together American history, natural wonders, and fine English pottery. A wonderful addition for collectors of Staffordshire transferware, Virginia memorabilia, or early American history souvenirs.
