Bucks Commissioners Approve Plan For Moravian Tile Works

DOYLESTOWN, PA — A controversial plan to allow a treasured historical gem in Bucks County to be run by a nascent nonprofit was unanimously approved by Bucks County commissioners Wednesday.

The licensing, management and services agreement between the county and the TileWorks of Bucks County will allow the not-for-profit to operate the Moravian Pottery & Tile Works as a working history museum for at least the next 30 years.

The county is losing roughly $500,000 a year to run the museum, Commissioner Bob Harvie said, and allowing a nonprofit to manage the institution will reduce the burden on taxpayers and preserve the museum's future.

Katia McGuirk, tilemaker and executive director of the TileWorks of Bucks County, outlined her organization's plan for the museum during a presentation Wednesday. They plan to continue making tile using local wild clay in the traditional Arts & Crafts tradition, build a robust marketing plan, and improve tours and add experiences.

"The tenets of this agreement guarantee that the Moravian Pottery & Tile Works is protected in perpetuity," McGuirk said. "We have adhered to the principals of Bucks County's official Comprehensive Plan."

During Wednesday's meeting, several members of the public spoke out in support of McGuirk's plan, while others expressed frustration that the Bucks County Historical Society was not part of the dialogue. The historical society, already responsible for running the Mercer Museum and Fonthill Castle, had argued that the Tile Works would be better served under their nonprofit umbrella.

Addressing concerns over the length of the contract, Commissioner Harvie said the agreement can be canceled at any time for any reason.

"I'm very confident this is going to mark a major turning point in the history of the Tile Works, and it's a bright future ahead," Harvie said.

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