The Patriots of Early American Pottery

In the wake of Monday's bombings here in Boston, and the visual experience of working in the Boston media, I thought the only appropriate post (if any) this week would be geared towards the unfortunate and cowardly acts of selfishness and cruelty that unfolded at the Boston Marathon. Words can not express the pain, shock, agony, acceptance and quality of life that so many must now find a way to deal with for the remainder of their lives. It's a feeling that most will never understand until that time in their life comes.

I heard a Boston doctor say yesterday during a press conference that most of these patients will look at their lives now in two parts: before the bombing and after the bombing. This is the truth. This is generally the mindset of anyone who has ever experienced the pain of a life altering event or illness. Sadly, these brave families and victims lives have now likely changed forever. The person they once were may not be the person they become. It is an unfortunate and tragic event that we all saw unfold and I truly hope the person or persons responsible are brought to justice for the world to see.

My heart goes out to everyone who has been affected by these gutless and devilish acts.

I enjoy early American pottery as much as the next person, but with such an event, everything is put into perspective. My passion for early pottery helped me personally through some very difficult times in my own life with serious health issues not too long ago. I can only hope that these people can find happiness from here on out. It's not right what happened and it's especially not fair. They were mere supportive spectators at a marathon of all places. These are the good people in life. These are not the people (if any) to hurt. These are the wrong people to have such a disgusting act happen to them. I can only hope they find happiness and peace from here on out. I hope family, friends, loved ones and hospital workers will help them cope with this traumatic experience.

I had family members only a matter of blocks from where the bombings happened. My nine-year-old nephew explained to me what he witnessed and heard on Monday. To hear that from an innocent nine-year-old boy's mouth is unexpected. He described loud noises and big guns. I am thankful that none of them were hurt and I am sorry for those who were.

Here are a few examples of early American patriotic pottery that I would like to share.

Absalom Stedman Pottery - New Haven, CT

Made Between 1825-1830

Photo Courtesy: Pook and Pook Auctions, Downington, Pa

Daniel Goodale Pottery - Hartford, CT

19th Century

Photo Courtesy: Skinner, Inc - Boston

New England Redware Pitcher

19th Century

Photo Courtesy: Skinner, Inc - Boston

We should all be thankful for the hospitals and all those involved with health care working in Boston. They saved many lives on Monday. They are the unsung heroes. This is what they do every day of the week and it typically goes unnoticed. They don't do it for the spotlight. They don't expect any credit. They do what they do because they are wonderful people who enjoy helping those in need. They're satisfaction develops from seeing a sick person get their life back. I know that they are doing all they can to help these victims. We should all be thankful. I know I am.

Let's hope there is an arrest soon...today, tomorrow....soon.