Frederick Walrath grew up in the small town of Jasper in upstate New York and was a teacher for several years prior to taking his career, and life, in a new direction. In 1901 he enrolled in the first class of the New York State School of Clay-Working and Ceramics at Alfred University under director Charles Fergus Binns. Walrath attended for three years with Binns as his mentor, who instructed him on every aspect of making ceramics.

While a student, he exhibited his work as part of Alfred University’s display at the 1904 Louisiana Purchase Exposition and received a bronze medal. Walrath’s early works often featured carved designs, but over time he developed a style all his own.

After leaving Alfred in 1904, he taught brie...