Merigold, a little town of less than 1000 located in the Mississippi Delta, is truly a little known southern gem. Recently, we had the joy of venturing to this little artist haven and we came back itching to share. Journey with us on A Day Trip to Merigold, Mississippi.
This little town is home to McCarty Pottery, a renown family-run artisan business, that now serves as the epicenter of the community and attracts collectors and visitors from all across the world. The Pottery studio and shop is the old mule barn, but it has certainly taken on a new life since its first renovations in 1954. When first entering the town you may question if you are in the right place, but upon opening the modest old barn entrance you are immediately floored by all the beauty it hides within.
Six days a week you can find Jamie Smith, godson of the original artists Pup and Lee McCarty, in the barn with his wheel creating masterpieces. The rich southern history is evident in each and every unique piece. Legendary author and fellow Mississippian, William Faulkner is credited with allowing the McCarty’s to dig the clay for their first pieces from a ravine behind his home, Rowan Oaks.
Be sure to allow for plenty of time to explore the elaborate gardens that surround the grounds. They are filled with both exotic and native plants. Serene, peaceful, and elegant – this was honestly one of our most favorite parts.
In the early 90s the family opened a small lunch restaurant, The Gallery, found in downtown. The small menu is planned daily and is described as “New York cuisine served with sweet cornbread and iced tea.” Every dish is served on McCarty pottery, which makes the experience truly awe-inspiring. It is open Tuesday through Saturday 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m, reservations are not required but trust us you want to make them.
While our schedule didn’t allow for more than a day trip, it is a good idea to make a weekend of it. The Alluvian Hotel, which is home to the famous Viking Cooking School is found just 30 miles down the road. There you can stay, enjoy a phenomenal spa, and take amazing classes.
We were left wanting more of this hidden, little Delta gem and cannot wait to return!
3 Comments
Robert michael taylor
I worked for the McCarty’s when i was in college at Delta State and became life ling friends with Lee and Pup. I waited tables at the rest, the gallery, which allowed me to have spending money and still take a full class load each semester. I have quite the collection of my own of their pottery since we’ve known them for over 45 years. I miss them both terribly and read over some of the letters that lee wrote me over the years sometimes whenever i need a little pick me up pep talk!! They weee both amazing people in their own right and truly savants in their respective crafts!! The world is DEFINITELY a better and more BEAUTIFUL place because they were in it!!!
Robert michael taylor
I worked for the McCarty’s when i was in college at Delta State and became life lOng friends with Lee and Pup. I waited tables at the RESTAURANT, the gallery, which allowed me to have spending money and still take a full class load each semester. I have quite the collection of my own of their pottery since we’ve known them for over 45 years. I miss them both terribly and read over some of the letters that lee wrote me over the years sometimes whenever i need a little pick me up pep talk!! They weRe both amazing people in their own right and truly savants in their respective crafts!! The world is DEFINITELY a better and more BEAUTIFUL place because they were in it!!!
Georgia Pellegrini
Love hearing this 🙂