Third Annual Americana Symposium May 21-23, 2027
Thank you for joining us for the 2026 Americana Symposium. Save the date for 2027. Registration launches in early 2027!
From Hubener to Medinger: Redware Potters of Southeastern Pennsylvania
Trappe, PA
March 13 – 15, 2026
This year’s symposium examines one of the most beloved aspects of American folk art—Pennsylvania German redware. Focusing on redware’s production, use, and collecting in southeastern Pennsylvania from the mid-1700s to mid-1900s, the second annual Americana Symposium provides fresh insights into renowned potters such as Georg Hubener and Samuel Troxel as well as lesser-known figures. It also delves into the work of twentieth-century potters including Jacob Medinger, considered the last of the traditional Pennsylvania German potters; Henry Chapman Mercer, founder of the Moravian Tile Works and Mercer Museum; and Mildred Weekes Keyser, a pioneering female potter. Held in conjunction with Historic Trappe’s exhibition on Pennsylvania German redware and Americana Insight’s third volume, this year’s Americana Symposium is not to be missed!
Co-sponsored by
Symposium Calendar
Friday, May 21 – Bus Tour
Enhance your symposium experience with an optional bus trip to explore local collections or guided tours of Historic Trappe's museums.
Saturday, May 22 – Lectures
Join us for a full day of informative talks by leading scholars, including a keynote address plus eight additional lectures, two coffee breaks, boxed lunch, and evening cocktail reception with hearty hors d'oeuvres, plus museum admission.
Scholarships are available for graduate students and young professionals.
Sunday, May 23 – Workshops
Extend your time in Historic Trappe with a variety of object-study workshops and special behind-the-scenes tours.
Scholarships
Two scholarships covering the registration fee are available for current graduate students and young museum professionals, sponsored by the Decorative Arts Trust. Eligible applicants should be enrolled in an art history, history, material culture, or related program and/or be a young professional employed by an art or history museum. To apply, please email a one-page cover letter explaining why you want to attend the symposium, c.v., and recommendation letter to info@historictrappe.org by February 20, 2026.
Hotel Accommodations
Thank you to our symposium sponsors:
