McCoy pottery originated in 1899 with the J.W. McCoy Pottery in Roseville, Ohio, evolving from utilitarian stoneware to decorative art pieces like cookie jars and planters. The company went through several ownership changes and name changes, including a merger that formed the Brush-McCoy Pottery Company, but the family's legacy continued through the Nelson McCoy Pottery Company which became known for its artful designs. The original company closed in 1990.