Smithsonian Contributions - Smithsonian Institution Libraries

148
simply an accumulation of broken and defective vessels in the pottery
yard.
To "key" the arch: To lay in a series of wedge-shaped bricks along the centerline
of a kiln's arch. These bricks support die weight of the arch.
Kraut jar: A type of churn with a wide mouth and turned-out lip, or "flange,"
used to secure a cloth covering. Made primarily for keeping cabbage
kraut, these large jars were customarily turned in five- and six-gallon sizes.
Lead glaze: A type of clear glaze used very often in other parts of the country
on red earthenware pottery, but rarely used on White County stoneware.
Lifter: A device used to lift vessels from the turning surface onto die wheel
crib or a waiting board. Pottery lifters were made in two varieties: woodhandled
lifters that were used in pairs and a metal caliper type that was
hinged.
Lifter: The handle on churns, usually joined by a looped "ear" on the opposite
side.
Lime glaze: An alkaline glaze combining slaked lime, pottery clay, and,
sometimes, white sand. Lime glaze, like flint glaze, was a specialty of die
Tarp Dorsey family.
Lower end: The firebox end of the kiln.
Michigan Slip: A commercial glaze material used by the Meaderses when its
celebrated predecessor, Albany Slip, became unavailable. A darker
material than Albany Slip, Michigan Slip burned to almost a black finish.
Mud mill: The Meaderses' name for their mule-drawn clay mill. The apparatus
consisted of a large wooden tub widi a revolving central shaft. Set into
the latter was a series of flat blades which coursed through the raw clay as
the post was pulled around by the mule. The Meaderses abandoned the
use of dieir mill in 1967 in favor of an electric grinder.
To "open" a ball: The process, following centering, of drawing the clay away
from the center of the ball and upward into a cylindrical shape. The
Meaderses used a mechanical contrivance known as a "ball opener" to
create the initial hole in the ball's center.
Patent glaze: The term widely given to Albany Slip. This usage is probably
akin to "patent medicine," meaning some commercial preparation distributed
to a mass market.
Peep hole: A small orifice in the kiln wall, through which the potter can
observe the progress of his burn. Often, the kiln's attendant will intention-