Newell: Fiesta Heritage on the Ohio River

Newell brings together pottery history, historic buildings, and the Ohio River. When looking for a hotel, you can first consider which focus you want to shape your stay: the development of the ceramics industry, the architecture, or recreational opportunities along the river. These themes give Newell a distinct character and help you choose a destination that suits your interests.

Pottery history from its beginnings to Fiesta

The history goes back to the 19th century: between 1848 and 1857, the Larkin brothers' Virginia Pottery produced the first molded tableware in what is now West Virginia, in Newell. Newell's location on the Ohio River enabled local potters to learn from advances in the neighboring pottery center of East Liverpool, Ohio. In the early 20th century, the Homer Laughlin China Company expanded and moved across the river to Newell. Fiesta Plant #4 was completed in 1906 and was then the largest pottery facility in the world. These dates show that Newell's pottery history encompasses both early local production and later industrial expansion.

The Fiesta Tableware Company continues to operate in Newell as a manufacturer of tableware and gifts. Fiesta became known for its bold solid colors, Art Deco influence, and mix-and-match design philosophy. Design, as well as industrial history, is therefore one of the city's defining themes. If you are interested in the manufacturing process, you can request a tour from the Fiesta Tableware Company to see how tableware is made. Confirm availability before your arrival.

The Newell Factory Outlet sells first- and second-quality Fiesta products, as well as other products available only at outlet stores. Visitors can shop for household goods at the Fiesta Factory Outlet in Newell. The product selection may change. For your trip planning, manufacturing, design, and shopping therefore offer different ways to connect with Fiesta history.

Historic buildings and river crossing

The William E. Wells House is a three-story Colonial Revival residence. It is located on Newell Heights and overlooks Newell, the Ohio River, and East Liverpool. Another perspective on Newell's architectural history can be found at the Rauh Building at 446 Washington Street: this preserved commercial building was completed by 1908. The Newell Bridge carries a two-lane road and a pedestrian walkway across the Ohio River between Newell and East Liverpool, Ohio. It is considered historically significant because it is one of the few remaining suspension bridges on the Ohio River. Together, these examples span residential architecture and commercial buildings to a river crossing.

River and parks

Kennedy Park and Marina is located right on the Ohio River in Newell. Visitors can take boat trips on the river; access and conditions may change. Camping is also available, but seasonally. Confirm availability before planning your trip around it. Kennedy Park and Marina's connection to the river thus differs from Newell's architectural and industrial themes.

Laurel Hollow Park opened in 1905 as a picnic area and park and was developed as a recreational area for picnics, movies, and a zoo. The park formerly also included an open-air theater. The Bears Den Amphitheater is located on the site of the former bear enclosure. These historic recreational uses should be distinguished from the current information about the circular flower garden: the garden is maintained, and new plants are added every spring; its condition may change.

If you are looking for a hotel in Newell, you can choose the focus of your stay according to your interests: pottery history and design on the one hand, architecture and the river on the other. The history of pottery can be linked to specific places and dates, while Kennedy Park and Marina adds the Ohio River as a recreational attraction.

Discover more destinations: Weirton.

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