What began as a simple preservation effort has turned into a nationally recognized celebration of craftsmanship, history, and community. The Stoneware Museum of Monmouth is once again preparing to welcome collectors and pottery enthusiasts from across the country for its annual Stoneware Fest, set for Saturday, June 28. This year’s event promises to be the biggest yet, with over 60 vendors already signed on and a growing reputation that stretches far beyond Illinois.
Ray and Cindy Brinkman, the husband-and-wife team behind the museum, say the growth of the festival over the past four years has been both humbling and exciting. “We started with just 23 vendors,” Ray said. “Last year we had 48, and this year we’ve hit 58—and we’re still taking a couple more. If need be, we’ll go to tailgate setups.”
The museum highlights the legacy of Monmouth and Western Stoneware—pottery that was once a major economic and cultural force in the region. Formed in the early 20th century, Western Stoneware became known for its durable, handcrafted crocks, jugs, and kitchenware. Over time, the products found their way into homes, farms, and businesses across the country—and, as the Brinkmans have discovered, many are still out there.
“One of the wildest finds came through a friend of a friend,” Ray recalled. “There was a Western Stoneware crock being used as a planter—in a ladies’ restroom—on Sanibel Island, Florida. That’s 1,300 miles away from here. It’s amazing how far these pieces have traveled.”
Cindy says that what makes the pieces so beloved isn’t just their function or durability—it’s the memories they evoke. “People walk in and immediately say, ‘Grandma had one of those!’ or ‘We used that to make pickles!’ There’s a strong sense of nostalgia,” she said. “It’s part of what keeps people coming back.”
The festival has also proven to be an unexpected gateway into collecting for some attendees. Ray shared the story of a local landscaper who came to the museum just to tidy up the grounds before the festival. “He came in and looked around. Now, three years later, he’s got 300 to 400 pieces and travels the country collecting. He got hooked just from that first visit.”
This year’s Stoneware Fest is also expanding in scope. While the event originally focused strictly on Monmouth and Western pieces, the Brinkmans are now opening the doors to pottery of all types. “We want this to be inclusive of all collectors,” said Ray. “You’ll see Buckeye Pottery, SP&S, even Red Wing pieces in the coming years.”
The festival will also feature an impressive lineup of door prizes, including a full set of rare “sleepy-eyed” figurines that originally came packaged in 50-pound flour bags in the early 1900s, a beautifully glazed two-gallon butter churn from Whitehall’s SP&S company, and an ice water cooler from Macomb’s Buckeye Pottery.
Beyond the pieces themselves, the festival offers something deeper—a celebration of community heritage, craftsmanship, and shared appreciation. “We’re proud of what’s been built here,” said Cindy. “And we’re grateful for everyone who’s helped us get the word out—especially our neighbors in Mercer County who always show up with such great energy.”
Stoneware Fest takes place on Saturday, June 28, at the Stoneware Museum in Monmouth, Illinois. Admission is free, and collectors, historians, and curious visitors are all welcome.
For more information and to preview the door prizes, visit the Stoneware Museum of Monmouth’s Facebook page.