Rare Putnam County, Tennessee stoneware pottery rundlet made by James C. Crawley (b. abt 1798 – 1859). Signed and dated in script on upper section “J. C. Crawley, His Jug, 1851”. Tan transitioning to dark brown in color. 14 1/4″ H. Provenance: acquired from the Geraldine Pettross Apple estate, Gordonsville, TN (Smith Co.). Biography (Courtesy of Carole Wahler): James C. Crawley was born in Maryland about 1798. He married Anna Martin about 1826 in White County, TN. He can be found in the White County census records in 1830, 1840, and 1850. In the 1840 census he is listed as a Manufacturer and in the 1850 census as a potter. Two of his sons are also listed as potters in that 1850 census. White County was a center for pottery production during this time period. In 1845, Crawley’s eldest son William moved to Arkansas. Current research indicates that William became the first non-Indian potter in the Ozarks. At some point in time after 1850, James joined his son in Washington County Arkansas. He died there in 1859. Note – this is the earliest dated Middle Tennessee form with an identified potter’s name. Condition: Chip to upper rim and spout.