HISTORY
With 150 years of invention, innovation, and some of the world’s richest clay reserves, Gladding, McBean is the leader in Terra Cotta, Clay Pipe, and Tile products. Today Gladding uses sophisticated technology to create distinctive design elements and functional new products. By using the past to design the future, Gladding, McBean combines old-world craftsmanship with modern technology to re-create some of the world’s most famous building elements.
1874
On May 12, Charles Gladding, along with partners Peter McGill McBean and George Chambers, founded Gladding, McBean & Co. In August, they shipped their first carload of pipe to San Francisco, where they had established an office in a coal yard.
1884
With strong sales and a statewide customer base, the partners built a two-story office building with terra cotta detailing on Market Street in San Francisco. The Lincoln plant was the first to product terra cotta trim on the Pacific Coast, which drew attention and let to the launch of a new production line.
1890
During the 1890's, the factory expanded its offerings to include firebrick, roof tiles, enamel brick, face brick, and garden pottery, such as huge decorative urns, statuary, drinking and decorative fountains, birdbaths, benches, and tables.
1940
In the 1940's and 50's, when terra cotta production was at its peak, the Lincoln plant employed up to 750 people, and as many as ten highly skilled artisans and sculptures to meet demand.
1990
In 1990, Gladding, McBean started to reproduce a line of gardenware using the original molds and methods that have remained unchanged since the plant's inception. However, the glazes were reformulated to comply with new environmental regulations while closely resembling those made in the past.
2020
Gladding, McBean unveiled a new Carbon Speed Seal color for Vitrified Clay Pipe. Our manufacturing processes and technology yield a ceramaic product that offers superior strength, high density, watertight joints, and a life cycle of over 100 years.
2022
Scanning and advanced CNC technology are introduced in field surveys and manufacturing, reducing costs and lead times for Architectural Terra Cotta.
Celebrating 150 Years of Gladding, Mcbean — Share Your Story
​For 150 years, Gladding, McBean has helped shape historic landmarks, architectural treasures, and communities across the country. From terra cotta façades to classic clay roof tile, our materials have stood the test of time.
​Have a project, photograph, memory, or restoration story connected to Gladding, McBean? We’d love to hear from you.
Whether you’re researching a historic building, preserving a property, or uncovering a piece of architectural history, share your story or submit an inquiry below. Please include as many details as possible — location, approximate date, and photos are always helpful.
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Help us continue documenting 150 years of craftsmanship and legacy.