The Meaders Pottery dynasty began on a whim. It's founder John Milton Meaders built a log shop on the outskirts of Cleveland, Georgia in a tiny community known as Mossy Creek. This log shop would prove to be a center of production for the Meaders family pottery for the next 100 years. The shop was originally designed to suppliment the family's income, but quickly became a full time job. John Milton's sons quickly became accomplished turners, however, all but one chose to ply their trades elsewhere.
Cheever Meaders was the exception. If it had not been for his decision to take over the shop, this fledging operation would have ceased to exist. Cheever made the commitment, and to this, he was devoted. He persevered through World War II and the Great Depression. Cheever continued his role of the sole producer of the traditional Meaders Pottery line in North Georgia.
The honor would then be bestowed to his son Lanier Meaders. Lanier picked up where his father left off. He soon became reknown for his decorative endeavors and his highly expressionistic face jugs.
In 1967 the Smithsonian Institue paid a visit to the shop and were fascinated with what they found. The visits were taped and later produced as documentaries for PBS. Also a substantial amount of pottery was ordered for sale and exhibit at the upcoming Folk Art Festival in Washington, D.C.. Several examples of Meaders pottery remain on display at the Smithsonian today.
Tragedy would however strike, as Lanier would be diagnosed with bone cancer. With no apparent successor at the helm, it appeared the shop would close. One Meaders family member would not allow this to happen. Cheever's grandson, David Meaders, stepped up to answer the call. David is following in the footsteps of his uncle and grandfather before him. He produces the traditional ware much like his grandfather Cheever, as well as some decorative pieces reminiscent of Lanier's work. David's combination of styles allows one to see the full spectrum of the Meaders Pottery line, from it's traditional beginnings to it's current decorative extent. To this day, the traditional pottery wares of the Meaders family are being accurately produced by David Meaders.