North Dakota Pottery Collectors Society
An organization created to enhance collecting interest in the types
of pottery made in North Dakota
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Photos courtesy of Richard Berg
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NDPCS Member Spotlight
ANN DIETCHMAN
Ann, a NDPCS member since 2012 and newly elected NDPCS president, lives with her husband in Bismarck, ND.
What first interested you in North Dakota pottery and collecting?
“I have been a collector of “things” my whole life. My son, Jeremy, became interested in pottery at first and said I need to add a new collection to my list. Why pottery? Pottery has been a part of human civilization for thousands of years, Dakota and Rosemeade have created pieces that reflect North Dakota history, especially advertising ashtrays that bring back memories of businesses gone by the wayside or historical places that still exist and visited by many today. Pottery is functional and decorative and for me it’s important that it be seen so my pottery is displayed for all to see. For me UND pottery are pieces that reflect North Dakota’s history, but the art portrayed, and the craftsmanship is outstanding. My collection begins and ends with all things “Dakota” made pottery. I like all ND pottery, but UND is my favorite."
What was the first piece of ND pottery you purchased or received?
“My first piece of pottery was purchased at an auction sale prior to the start of the 2012 convention. It is a yellow pitcher by ND WPA. This pitcher was made for use in Home Economics classrooms. I have spent my entire life involved in Home Economics Education now called Family and Consumer Sciences Education."
What to you enjoy most about colleting North Dakota pottery?
“The history and the story behind each piece of pottery."
What is a fun memory you have about a NDPCS convention?
“Meeting new people who share the same joy in collecting, hearing stories about other people’s collections and how they came to collecting pottery."
What is your favorite piece in your collection?
“A UND “Home Ec” medallion. It came from an auction Dean Moos has in Mandan. I wasn’t going home without it!"
What do you wish people knew about you, your collection, and/or NDPCS?
“Being a part of the North Dakota Pottery Collector’s Society has given me the opportunity to meet new people, people who enjoy the social aspect of pottery collecting from attending auctions, to conventions, to learning from others more about “Dakota-made” pottery."
Do you have any words of advice or wisdom for new collectors?
“Take the time to learn about ND Pottery History, learn to identify marks and signatures, understand condition and value, get hands-on experience with authentic ND pottery by visiting antique shops, museums, collector shows, and join NDPCS! Our members are all so knowledgeable and are so willing to share with anyone! And finally, don’t just collect for value, choose pieces that personally appeal to you."
What types of pottery or specific piece are you currently seeking?
- "I would love to be able to add the WPA Nursery Rhyme pieces to my collection."