Children of the revolution: An exploration of children working in the pottery industry in 19th century Stoke-on-Trent, UK

Throughout the 19th century A.D., children played an important role in the pottery industry in Stoke-on-Trent (UK). In 1861, 19% of Potteries workers were under the age of 15 years and comprised of both boys and girls. Boys typically became apprentices in the potting department at 14 years of age whilst girls were apprenticed between 11-12 years old in the finishing department. Stunted growth, lead poisoning, and silicosis, were amongst the most common conditions seen in pottery workers from the period, though limited research has been conducted into the health and longevity of children that worked in this industry. This paper aims to shed new light on the roles of children in the Potteries and how this type of employment affected their health and quality of life. Census data, testimonies, and modern clinical data will be used to paint a clearer picture of the lives and deaths of children that inhabited and worked in the Potteries. It is hoped that this research will not only highlight the value of studying children from this context, but will provide a more comprehensive insight into the pottery industry, local history, and child labour during this period in Stoke-on-Trent.