American Toby Jug Museum 

Parson Brown ash tray designed by Charles J. Noke and produced by Royal Doulton of Burslem, England, from 1939 to 1960. The clergy was an important figure in country society. His living was made by the comfortable parsonage that was provided and a portion of the tithes and offerings from his parishioners. In return the Parson preached his sermons, christened children, married couples, provided comfort when needed, and buried those of his flock whose time had come. Certainly not always solemn, it seems Parson Brown has had just a little too much game pie, but then, in earlier centuries, those with a good living ate, drank, and were merry and, by today's standards, were somewhat unconscious of the merits of healthy living! From his appearance, the most exercise the good Parson ever has is a leisurely ride around his parish and his strenuous Sunday sermon. The number 8134 is impressed on the bottom of this ash tray.