In 1772, one Thomas Turner began working for potter Ambrose Gallimore, who had established his factory on land bought from the Browne Estate at Caughley around 1750. Turner became famous for bringing around radical changes in the making of porcelain in the area and one of his most talented apprentices, John Rose, set up his own business in 1795. Rose, it seems, was the craftsman, while his partner, Blakeway, was the businessman, a shareholder in the famous Iron Bridge over the River Severn and former Mayor of Shrewsbury. The business thrived and attracted international attention in the last decade of the 18th century - including a visit in 1796 from the Prince and Princess of Orange during which His Highness purchased some pieces by Mr Rose.