Lancaster County Pennsylvania Souvenir Plate
Decorative ceramic plate, transferware souvenir • Likely manufactured by a regional American pottery company like Vernon Kilns or Kettlesprings Kilns for a local historical society or tourism vendor
Style & Movement
Mid-century Americana / Traditional Commemorative Decorative Art
Medium & Technique
Glazed white porcelain or vitreous china with green underglaze transfer-printed decoration
Creation Period
Mid-20th Century (circa 1950s–1970s)
Dimensions & Format
Circular tondo format; estimated 10-11 inches in diameter
Subject Description
A collage of historical landmarks in Lancaster County, PA, including the Ephrata Cloisters, Wheatland (Home of James Buchanan), Penn Square, the Pennsylvania Farm Museum at Landis Valley, and icons of Amish culture (horse and buggy, pretzels, stiegel glass). The central text reads 'Founded 1729 - America's Garden Spot'.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Excellent; images show a clean surface without visible chips, cracks, or crazing
Estimated Market Value
US $15.00 - $35.00
Auction Estimate
US $10.00 - $25.00
Provenance History
Likely purchased as a souvenir within Pennsylvania; typical of mid-century domestic collectibles found in regional antique markets
Art Historical Significance
A representative example of 20th-century regional identity branding in the United States, documenting local pride in colonial history and the 'Pennsylvania Dutch' cultural heritage through mass-produced domestic objects.
Notable Features
Includes detailed vignettes of specific local sites like the 'Old Court House' and 'Donegal Church' organized within a floral and ribbon border typical of English-inspired transferware
Condition Issues
None visible from the image; potential for minor shelf-wear on the foot ring or light cutlery marks if previously used for dining
Conservation Recommendations
Keep away from abrasive cleaners and avoid dishwasher use to preserve the glaze and transfer integrity; display on a padded wire plate hanger away from direct sunlight