Who founded Wedgwood, and when did it start?

Wedgwood began in 1759, founded by Josiah Wedgwood I in Burslem, Staffordshire. Many histories highlight him as a major figure in British ceramics, known for experimentation, design direction, and building fashionable wares for a growing market. The company’s own history pages repeat 1759 as the start point and link that early period to materials Wedgwood still makes or celebrates, such as Jasper and Black Basalt. For collectors, that long timeline explains why “Wedgwood” on its own does not date an object. A Wedgwood name can appear on 18th-century creamware, 19th-century marked wares, 20th-century bone china, or modern giftware. Dating needs the full stamp style plus the object type.