American Toby Jug Museum 

Towncrier toby jug produced by Bairstow Manor Pottery of Hanley, England, circa 1980. A towncrier, also called a bellman or bell ringer, is an officer of a royal court or public authority who makes public pronouncements as required in the streets. Towncriers often dress elaborately, by a tradition dating to the 18th century, in a red and gold coat, white breeches, black boots and a tricorne hat. In English-speaking countries, they carried a handbell to attract people's attention, as they shouted the words "Oyez, Oyez, Oyez!" before making their announcements. The word "Oyez" means "hear ye," which is a call for silence and attention. This toby jug is a part of the Staffordshire Character Jugs Series.