West Virginia is home to some great cities, some stunning natural wonders and one thing you might not know about...the World's Largest Teapot. Before you pass this off as just an annoying roadside attraction, take a look at the unique and interesting history of this West Virginia gem.
The little town of Chester sits on the banks of the Ohio River, right next to the West Virginia/Ohio border. Fewer than 3,000 residents live here, but the World's Largest Teapot also makes its home here.
You can visit the teapot at the junction of State Route 2 and U.S. Route 30.
Click here for the interactive map with directions.
The teapot has an interesting history.
It was originally built by William Devon in 1938, and it wasn't a teapot then - it was meant to be a hogshead barrel for an A&W Rootbeer advertisement. After the advertising campaign, Devon purchased it back, put a spout and handle on it and put it in front of his pottery shop in Chester. Food and souvenirs were sold out of the teapot for many years, even through a change in ownership.
In 1971, the teapot was abandoned when the business was sold. It sat empty until 1984, when C&P Telephone bought the land and intended to demolish it. When the community rallied around the teapot, C&P Telephone donated it to the city, and it was moved while restoration plans could be implemented.
It took many years to get the teapot fully restored and placed in its current location.
From 1987 to 1990, the community raised the $3,000 to restore the teapot. Thanks to community donations and many volunteers, the teapot got a new roof, floor and pour spout. Its doors and windows were sealed shut and painted, and it got a brand new paint job. The grounds were landscaped. On October 12, 1990, the community of Chester celebrated with dedication ceremony.
The teapot is 14 feet high and 14 feet in diameter. It's a fun bit of nostalgia for the little town of Chester.
Have you seen the Chester Teapot?
Do you love the unique places in West Virginia? If so, take a look at these 11 weird places in our state.
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