Stoneware Jug Globe Liquor Co.

Q: My stoneware jug is 11 3/8 inches tall. It was my mother-in-law’s. The jug is printed with blue letters, “Globe Liquor Co., 148 & 152 Main St., Buffalo, N.Y.” Can you tell me about it?

A: Your jug doesn’t have a maker’s mark, but a wine and liquor wholesaler operated in Buffalo, New York, at that address from the 1880s until about 1901. Salt-glazed stoneware pottery from Europe was used in America from its earliest days. By the 18th century, it was being made in America by hundreds of small local potters. Early decorations were incised and later designs were painted free hand, usually in cobalt blue glaze. By 1860, designs were more elaborate and had stylized flowers, leaves, birds and other pictures. Names were often printed or stamped on the jugs. Stoneware crocks held butter, sugar, spices, flour, coffee, tea, honey, molasses, pickles, cheese, smoked fish, meats and cheese. Stoneware jugs and bottles held vinegar and beer and kept water cool and drinkable. Don’t forget whiskey, that’s probably what was in your jug. Stoneware was out of favor by about 1910, after the inventions of canning in glass jars and refrigeration. Now collectors consider salt-glazed stoneware folk art. Prices are determined by rarity, unusual decoration or known maker. Your jug is worth about $80 to $100.