Hidden Treasure. This Minton tile of the 1870’s was exposed after being hidden for decades behind wallpaper and paint.
These tiles are in the “canteen for working men” in the basement of the Minton Free Library in Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire, England. Built across the street from Minton’s pottery works by the Minton family.
Minton was one of the Staffordshire firms that exported millions of tiles to the US during the Victorian period. Such tiles could be used lineally for a fireplace surround or arranged into larger patterns for walls or wainscoting. English and American potteries produced tiles with many related motifs like this, including themes from literature and nature.
It is not unusual to find historic finishes and features covered over with later materials in historic homes. Tastes change between generations. Fortunately, many humans tend to cover over things rather than remove them because it is cheaper and faster. For those seeking to return a house to its historic character, finding and uncovering these hidden treasures can be a joyful experience.
The historic use of ceramic tile in homes and its restoration or replication are covered in “Restoring Your Historic House, The Comprehensive Guide for Homeowners.”
Signed and personalized copies of the award-winning and bestselling 720-page hardcover book are available directly from the author in our shop, YourHistoricHouse.com/shop/.
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