Pigeon River Pottery

Pigeon River Pottery is a working pottery at The Old Mill in Pigeon Forge, where artisans shape Tennessee clay on the wheel, finish each piece with hand-mixed glazes inspired by the Smoky Mountains, and fire it on site. It's one of the oldest traditions in town and a great place to find a handmade piece of the Smokies to take home.

Pigeon River Pottery is part of The Old Mill, alongside The Old Mill Restaurant and Pottery House Café & Grille, where meals are served on pottery made right here.

One of Pigeon Forge's first attractions

In 1946, potter Douglas Ferguson and his wife Ruth opened Pigeon Forge Pottery in a converted tobacco barn near The Old Mill. Visitors came to watch pottery being made, and it became one of the town's earliest tourist destinations. Pigeon River Pottery carries that tradition forward today, with artisans still making pottery by hand.

Glazes inspired by the Smokies

The glazes are what make Pigeon River Pottery instantly recognizable. Each one draws on the colors of East Tennessee, from the soft greens of moss and the deep blues of mountain streams to the warm golds of autumn leaves. It's pottery that looks like the mountains it came from.

What you'll find

Dinnerware

Handcrafted plates, bowls and mugs made for everyday use, the kind of pieces that turn into family heirlooms.

Bakeware

From apple bakers to batter bowls, the bakeware is made to last for generations.

Serveware

Platters, pitchers and serving sets made for big family meals and holiday gatherings.

Decorative pieces

Birdhouses, bear salt and pepper shakers and nature-inspired keepsakes make easy gifts and souvenirs.

Who it's for

Souvenir shoppers

A mug or a small decorative piece is a souvenir you'll actually use, and every piece is made right here in Pigeon Forge.

Cooks and collectors

If you love handmade kitchenware, the bakeware and serveware are built for real use.

Couples

Picking out a piece together is a lasting way to remember a getaway in the mountains.

Tips for your visit

Eat off the pottery first

Have lunch or dinner at Pottery House Café, where meals are served on Pigeon River Pottery, then walk over to shop the pieces you just used.

Make a day of The Old Mill

Pair your visit with The Old Mill Restaurant, the shops and a stroll to Patriot Park. See our guide to things to do at The Old Mill.

Shop online later

Pigeon River Pottery also sells online through The Old Mill, so you can add to your collection after you head home.

More pottery and crafts

See our guide to the top pottery makers in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, or visit the Glades Arts & Crafts Community in Gatlinburg for more handmade work. For more shopping, see our guides to shopping in Pigeon Forge and the best Smoky Mountain souvenirs.

Plan your visit

Frequently asked questions

Where is Pigeon River Pottery?

At The Old Mill in Pigeon Forge, 175 Old Mill Avenue.

Is Pigeon River Pottery made in Pigeon Forge?

Yes. Artisans shape, glaze and fire the pottery by hand at The Old Mill.

How old is Pigeon River Pottery?

Its roots go back to 1946, when Douglas and Ruth Ferguson opened Pigeon Forge Pottery near The Old Mill.

Is Pottery House Café connected to Pigeon River Pottery?

Yes. Both are part of The Old Mill, and Pottery House serves its meals on Pigeon River Pottery.