Largest Canadian-themed Wedgwood collection at King museum

May 17, 2017 · 0 Comments

Thanks to a donation, King Township’s Heritage and Cultural Centre is now host to the country’s largest Canadian-themed Wedgwood collection.
“We are excited to announce that we now house the largest collection of Canadian commissioned Wedgwood in all of Canada,” said Kathleen Fry, the centre’s curator.
This unique collection was donated by the estate of Keith Alwyn McLeod (1935-2014).
“When Mr. McLeod passed away, he gifted many of his family and friends with beautifully-kept Wedgwood pieces,” Fry said. “He then entrusted Mr. Jim Boyle with the task of donating the remaining pieces of his collection to an Ontario museum that was willing and able to accept his gift – and here we are!”
Josiah Wedgwood and Sons, commonly known as Wedgwood, is a fine china, porcelain and luxury accessories company founded in 1759 by Josiah Wedgwood. The more than 400 pieces donated to the museum all have Canadian themes, ranging from heraldry to commemorating the 100th anniversary of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police.
Fry said the collection is unique for a small museum.
Paige Sillcox, a certified appraiser and volunteer, spent several months cataloguing, researching and preparing the collection for display. Mr. McLeod’s estate also provided money to help fund proper storage for the collection.
Mayor Steve Pellegrini encouraged people to come out and see the collection, which is on display until July 1. He also thanked those involved in helping such a unique collection make its way to King.
“We could not be any more grateful for the generosity of Mr. McLeod and for the help and knowledge of Mr. Boyle,” said Pellegrini.
Residents and visitors alike are invited to see heritage images and themes reproduced on beautiful pieces of pottery at the “Canada . . . On a Plate” special exhibit at the King Heritage and Cultural Centre, 2920 King Rd., west of King City.