The Dish on Homer Laughlin's Fiesta

The Glass and Ceramics class was privileged to explore the Homer Laughlin China Company today and witnessed some of the practices that has made this WV company a household name.  Watch the video below and note the formidable history that allowed the formation of a product that captured the attention and devotion of generations of people as they set their tables with this famous dinnerware.

The foresight of its leaders have allowed this company to continue to grow as they expanded their china production into the commercial restaurant arena.  Many restaurants that we all frequent such as Steak and Shake, Applebees, PF Changs, and many others use Homer Laughlin dinnerware.  So when life is good and people are eating out chances are that they are eating off of plates made here in WV. However when the economy dictates that people can't afford to eat out as often and they must entertain themselves and others at home, then people look to home improvement to make their home time a more pleasurable experience.  Not able to afford a costly kitchen remodel some folks would opt to replace their dinnerware to create a new atmosphere.  Its a win-win for Homer Laughlin.

Your first assignment is to survey 20 people with the following questions? We will discuss results in class.
1. Have you ever heard of Homer Laughlin?
2. Have you ever heard of Fiesta dinnerware?
3. Do you own any Fiesta dinnerware?
4. Have you ever known anyone who owns or has owned any Fiesta dinnerware?
5. Where could you buy Fiesta dinnerware locally?

Your second assignment is long term. The next time that you are eating out with your family; check the bottom of your plate to see if the name Homer Laughlin is there indicating that you are eating off of WV made china. A chart will be posted and we will add restaurants as they are discovered.