Moravian Pottery and Tile Works
130 East Swamp Rd.
Doylestown, PA 18901
(215) 348-6098
Official Website

Operated by the Bucks County Historical Society in conjunction with Henry Chapman Mercer's mansion, Fonthill and the Mercer Museum, the Moravian Pottery & Tile Works takes that extra step to preserve the fascinating heritage left by this very creative individual.

Mercer collected American antiquity -- his passion motivated by a unique vision for his time. As well as preserving the objects he so loved, Mercer actually set out to revive the craft of pottery-making that thrived in 19th century Bucks County. Though his pottery-making attempts were unsuccessful, Mercer turned to yet another craft. His success with this new endeavor can be witnessed in buildings throughout the United States and the world, such as the State Capitol of Pennsylvania, with floor tiles produced by the Moravian Pottery & Tile Works.

The tiles in the Capitol are beautiful works of art of fascinating detail. Depicting 400 scenes in the Commonwealth's history, the tiles decorate the floors of the rotunda and halls.

The Tile Works preserves and displays many of these fine works of craftsmanship. And, as are Mercer's other concrete buildings, the Tile Works is a magnificent structure -- the perfect showcase for the treasures within.

Visitors can enjoy Self-Guided Tours. These begin with a 17-minute video presentation of biographical and historical information on Mercer and a full presentation of the tile making procedure. The rest of the tour, which takes about half an hour, reveals tile installations and exhibits, tool and machinery displays, the building's architectural features, and live demonstrations of tile making.

Needless to say the Tour is educational and is very popular with School Groups. The Tile Works can also be combined with one or both of the other Mercer buildings for a full day's art and history education.

Talented individuals may apply for an Apprentice Workshop to get a hands-on education in tile making and related crafts. The Workshop takes place twice per year, and only three participants are accepted per workshop.