Cornwall (?), mid-19 th century, terracotta

“Galena” is Latin for lead ore. Galena, Illinois was a major lead-mining region in the first half of the 19th century. Welsh and Cornish miners settled there, bringing with them their tastes and culture. The regional pottery is very consistent: Galena-style pots often have up to three ruffles; the Midwestern redware is almost pink in color.