Melvin Lee Owens (~1918-2003)
Westmoore, NC potter (just outside of Seagrove) who ran The Original Owens pottery from the 1930's to the 1970's and continued to work there with his son Boyd and daughter (Nancy Owens Brewer) for decades after.
His father was James Henry Owen a potter since the late 19th century (out of the very same shop ML Owens took over). He was father to his youngest son, Boyd Owens, as well as 6 other children. Six of his children are potters, all were taught pottery by him. Boyd Owens took over the business from his father in the 70s just as ML Owens had taken over from his father in the 30s. Melvin's son Vernon Owens took over Jugtown Pottery and works with Melvin's oldest son, Bobby.