Articles for Wade Collectors Club

For over two centuries, the name Wade Ceramics has been synonymous with British craftsmanship, innovation, and whimsical charm. From the bustling kilns of Stoke-on-Trent to the shelves of collectors worldwide, Wade has carved a unique niche in the world of pottery. At the heart of this enduring legacy is the Wade Collectors Club, a premier international community dedicated to preserving and celebrating the rich history of this iconic brand. Established officially in November 2006, the club serves as a bridge between the factory's storied past and a vibrant digital future, offering enthusiasts a dedicated platform to connect, share expertise, and acquire rare treasures. Whether you are a seasoned connoisseur of Art Deco vases or a new enthusiast captivated by the miniature magic of Wade Whimsies, the club provides the resources and community to turn a simple hobby into a lifelong journey of discovery. A Glimpse Into History: From Burslem to Global Fame The story of Wade began in 1810 in Burslem, the "Mother Town" of the Potteries. Originally founded by John Wade, the business initially focused on industrial items, including ceramic components for the textile industry and glass bottles for breweries. However, it was the visionary leadership of Colonel Sir George Wade in the early 20th century that propelled the brand into the decorative limelight. The Rise of the Whimsies In the 1950s, Wade introduced "Whimsies"—small, solid porcelain animal figurines that would become a global sensation. These miniatures were affordable, charming, and highly collectible, eventually leading to massive partnerships, most notably with Red Rose Tea, which distributed over 300 million figurines in tea boxes across North America. The Iconic Gurgle Jugs Another staple of the Wade brand is the Gurgle Jug (or Gluggle Jug). First designed in the 1870s, these fish-shaped pitchers produce a delightful "glugging" sound when poured. They remain a sought-after item for both their functional novelty and their aesthetic appeal in traditional and modern homes alike. Why Join the Wade Collectors Club? The Wade Collectors Club is more than just a membership; it is an invitation to an exclusive circle of ceramic experts and enthusiasts. Headquartered in Arundel, West Sussex, the club coordinates global efforts to ensure British ceramic craftsmanship remains accessible. 1. Exclusive "Membership Pieces" Every year, the club commissions "Membership Pieces"—limited-edition figurines available only to registered members. These items are never released to the general public, making them instant rarities on the secondary market. From the "Burslem Factory Cat" to characters from Alice in Wonderland and Wind in the Willows, these pieces represent the pinnacle of modern Wade production. 2. Wade World Magazine Members receive the official quarterly magazine, "Wade World." This publication is a treasure trove of information, featuring: Factory History: In-depth looks at the historical Stoke-on-Trent sites. Artist Profiles: Interviews with the talented modellers behind your favorite pieces. Valuation Guides: Updated market trends to help you understand the worth of your collection. Sneak Peeks: Early looks at upcoming releases and club events. 3. Expert Valuation and Authentication In an era of reproductions and imitations, knowing the authenticity of a piece is vital. The club offers Rare Figurine Authentication and Expert Valuation Services. Members can consult with seasoned valuers to verify backstamps, identify specific "mould variations," and determine the fair market value of their items. 4. "Wade on Tour" and Collector Fairs The community spirit truly comes alive at the "Wade on Tour" events and national collector fairs. These gatherings allow members to meet the directors, including Phillip Plowman, engage with expert researchers, and trade pieces with fellow enthusiasts. Specializations and Preservation The club focuses on several core areas of Ceramic Research to support the legacy of British pottery: Art Deco Vases: Preservation of the elegant 1930s designs produced under the Wadeheath Flaxman ware label. Industrial Ceramics: Documenting Wade’s contribution to British infrastructure, including the original tiles for the London Underground. Heritage Series: Promoting sets that celebrate British wildlife, nursery rhymes, and historical figures. Practical Information for Members Business Name: Wade Collectors Club Headquarters: Arundel, West Sussex, United Kingdom Annual Subscriptions: Available via the official website. Payment Methods: PayPal, Stripe, Credit/Debit Cards, Bank Transfer. Hours of Operation: Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM. Digital Amenities: High-speed member portal access, video conferencing for global board meetings, and exclusive auction access. The Future of Wade Collecting While the ceramic industry has faced economic challenges, the passion of the collector community remains unshaken. By fostering a vibrant digital community and maintaining a comprehensive archive of ceramic production, the Wade Collectors Club ensures that the future of the UK’s most charming collectible tradition is secure. Frequently Asked Questions 1. How do I join the Wade Collectors Club? You can sign up for an annual membership directly through the official website at wadepottery.co.uk. 2. What are "Whimsies"? Whimsies are small, solid porcelain animal figurines first introduced by Wade in 1954. They are among the most collected miniatures in the world. 3. Is my membership piece valuable? Because membership pieces are produced in limited quantities exclusively for club members, they often hold their value well and are highly sought after by collectors who missed the original release. 4. How can I tell if my Wade piece is authentic? Check for the official Wade backstamp. The club provides authentication services to help members identify genuine pieces versus reproductions. 5. What is the "Wade World" magazine? It is the club's official quarterly publication filled with historical articles, news, and member-exclusive content. 6. Can I attend events if I live outside the UK? Yes! While many physical fairs are held in the UK, the club has a global membership base and offers digital support and international shipping for exclusive pieces. 7. Who founded the Wade Collectors Club? The club was established by Wade Ceramics Ltd, with directors including Phillip Plowman, to support the brand's dedicated fan base. 8. What makes Gurgle Jugs special? Gurgle Jugs are uniquely shaped fish pitchers that create a distinct "gurgling" sound when liquid is poured out, due to a trapped air pocket in the tail. 9. Are there any rare Art Deco items I should look for? Look for the Wadeheath Flaxman ware backstamp from the 1930s. Vases and jugs from this era are prized for their stylistic elegance. 10. How do I contact the club for support? You can reach the helpdesk at +44 (0)845 246 2525 or via email at club@wadepottery.co.uk. Contact Details & Social Media Stay connected with the community and get the latest updates: Website:  https://www.wadepottery.co.uk/pages/collectors-club Facebook: Wade Ceramics Official Instagram: @wadeceramics Address: 14 Fairholme Drive, Yapton, Arundel, BN18 0JH, United Kingdom.