This small building, now located in front Alfred University, is one of the best reminders of the Celadon Terra Cotta Company's legacy.Alfred was a village that existed for decades before it became clear that the clay in the riverbeds of the area was suitable for making terra cotta ceramics. Local residents founded the Celadon Terra Cotta Company in 1889. It quickly grew to be a major manufacturer of terracotta products. The company also made roof tiles and bricks, but it also produced ornamental tiles that could be used on the exterior of buildings. These tiles were extremely popular in the period.The Terra Cotta Building was built by the Celadon Company in 1892 next to their tile factory to house a physical catalogue and display the many tiles they had available. It was so distinctive that a replica was built for the Chicago 1893 World's Fair.The quality of its products made the company so well-known that Alfred was selected as the New York State School of Clayworking. This school grew to become the New York State College of Ceramics and Material Science. Alfred's village still features many buildings that feature tilework by the Celadon Company.The main tile works building was completely destroyed in 1909 by a merger of companies, leaving the Terra Cotta structure alone for many years. Alfred University announced plans in 1969 to clear the site where the Celadon Company had been built a gym. The village historical society raised funds to save Terra Cotta. It was moved from the village postoffice in 1974 to its current location.Terra Cotta, a village landmark, is now open to the public and members from the nearby ceramic art college for appreciation and viewing.
