Blair, Catherine (1872–1946)
Blair, Catherine (1872–1946)
Scottish pottery painter and suffragist. Born 1872 in Bathgate, Midlothian, Scotland; died 1946 in Scotland.
Became active in women's suffrage movement in her late 30s; lived at Hoprig Mains Farm near Gladsmuir; was founding member of Scottish Women's Rural Institute, one of early feminist organizations and guilds designed to develop employment for women; founded Mak' Merry Pottery in Macmerry, East Lothian (1920); sold pieces at exhibitions and roadside markets, as well as organizing thriving export trade; moved studio eventually to North Berwick, East Lothian, continuing to produce high-quality pottery; took both 1st and 2nd places at Rural Industries Exhibition (late 1930s); received order for crockery set from Queen Mother; remained outspoken champion of cottage industry.