In the heart of Hanley, a city with a rich ceramics heritage, a symbolic shift is about to take place. The iconic Steel Man statue, a longstanding symbol of the city's industrial past, is set to make way for a new female sculpture, marking a significant moment in the city's ongoing efforts to celebrate and honor the contributions of women in the ceramics industry. This move is not just about replacing one statue with another; it's about recognizing and rectifying a historical oversight, one that has long been a point of contention among historians and local residents alike.
Personally, I think this is a long overdue and much-needed gesture. The ceramics industry, with its vibrant history and global influence, has long been associated with the names of iconic figures like Clarice Cliff and Susie Cooper. However, what many people don't realize is that for every celebrated name, there were hundreds of women whose contributions were often overlooked, underpaid, and undervalued. Women were the backbone of the industry, decorating and finishing some of the world's most iconic pottery, yet their names rarely made it into the annals of history.
At the start of the 20th Century, women made up nearly half of the workforce in the local pottery industry, according to the local authority. This fact alone underscores the extent of their contributions and the need for recognition. Women's roles were often overlooked, underpaid, and undervalued, with men taking on the most skilled and lucrative positions. This was not just a local phenomenon but a global trend, one that has had lasting implications for the industry and society at large.
The relocation and the new ceramics statue, first announced in July 2025, would be funded by Goodwin at no cost to the public, the council said. This funding is a testament to the commitment of the local community and businesses to recognizing and rectifying historical injustices. However, the question remains: what will the new statue represent? No details about the statue that is set to replace the Steel Man have yet been announced, leaving room for speculation and interpretation.
From my perspective, the new statue should not just be a symbolic gesture but a living testament to the women who made the ceramics industry what it is today. It should be a reminder of the hard work, skill, and dedication that went into creating the iconic pottery that has become synonymous with the city. It should also be a call to action, inspiring future generations of women to pursue careers in the industry and continue the legacy of their predecessors.
One thing that immediately stands out is the potential for the new statue to become a focal point for community engagement and education. It could serve as a catalyst for discussions about gender equality, historical injustices, and the importance of recognizing and valuing the contributions of women in the workplace. It could also be a source of inspiration for local artists and artisans, encouraging them to explore new themes and perspectives in their work.
What this really suggests is that the relocation of the Steel Man statue is more than just a physical change. It's a cultural shift, one that has the potential to reshape the way we think about the ceramics industry and the role of women within it. It's a step towards a more inclusive and equitable future, where the contributions of all individuals, regardless of gender, are recognized and celebrated.
In conclusion, the relocation of the Steel Man statue in Hanley is a significant moment in the city's history. It's a recognition of the past, a celebration of the present, and a call to action for the future. It's a reminder that history is not just about the past; it's about the present and the future as well. It's a testament to the power of community engagement and the potential for positive change. So, as we await the unveiling of the new statue, let's reflect on the importance of recognizing and valuing the contributions of women in the ceramics industry and beyond.
