Methodist minister Horace Weston of Connecticut was the pioneer preacher in Ulster and Sullivan counties, NY. When his health gave way in 1826, he moved to Ellenville, NY, and began to manufacture stoneware just as the Delaware & Hudson Canal facilitated distribution of his wares. Weston crocks and jugs were sold as far away as Scranton. Rev. Weston planned a branch factory in Honesdale, but unfortunately died of a fever before the factory was completed.

His son, William W. Weston, born in 1828 in Ellenville, took over leadership of the company, which he operated until 1854, when he turned the operation over to his brother Horace. William Weston was one of the organizers of the Wayne County Savings Bank (now Wayne Bank) and several other businesses, including the Honesdale Glass Company in East Honesdale. The Honesdale stoneware factory closed in 1857 after the death of Horace Weston. Although colorful and attractive, Weston stoneware was intended for everyday use and subject to breakage and is thus rare and collectible.

From the collection of the Wayne County Historical Society, 810 Main St., Honesdale. The museum and research library are open Friday and Saturday, 10 a. m. to 4 p. m.