Bourbon County Clay, a new woman-owned business started by Kate Freeman officially became an LLC in June of 2024.
“We have been working to build the business since we discovered the clay vein in 2017 on our family property in northwest Bourbon County,” she said. “We have worked diligently since then to reclaim and test the clay, dreaming of the day we could launch Bourbon County Clay.”
This business is separate from T.E. Freeman Studio LLC and The Artificers, which she and her husband, Trent, own, but will do business housed in the same building at 8 N. National Ave, Fort Scott.
Andrea Latham, Kansas City, KS is the studio apprentice and production supervisor.
“Andrea started apprenticing with us in Kansas City in 2020, and now travels to Fort Scott several times a month to work production for Bourbon County Clay LLC. The Artificers gallery also features Andrea’s work out of her own studio.”
The artists have created a handcrafted artisan coffee set as their first product from the clay in Bourbon County and also used locally sourced walnut wood in the design.
“Our first product is this handcrafted Bourbon County Artisan Coffee Set collection featuring a clay coffee pot, a matching pour-over, and two coffee cups, each with warm, smooth walnut handles,” she said. “Every piece in this set is made from locally sourced clay and walnut, harvested from the heart of Bourbon County, ensuring that each item carries the spirit of the land. The natural tones of the clay are complemented by the rich, earthy hues of the walnut, creating a harmonious blend that is both functional and timeless. Perfect for those who appreciate the art of slow brewing, this set transforms your coffee ritual into a celebration of craftsmanship and local heritage.”
The business is currently offering a pre-sale of thirty sets.
“There will only be 100 sets of each glaze color offered,” she said. “All sets are categorized and numbered.”
“Bourbon County Clay is deeply rooted in the land we call home,” she said. “This is a tribute to the place we love, crafted by the hands of artisans connected to this soil. From the hands of our artisans to yours, each piece is a limited-edition work of art, created in small batches.”
Hours of operation for the business are Wednesday to Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and is located inside The Artificers in Historic Downtown Fort Scott, 8 N. National.
To contact her, call 913-574-7741
The website: https://www.bourboncountyclay.