he Red Wing Collectors Society 2004 Convention Commemorative is a reproduction of the Red Wing Union Stoneware Company brushed ware vase number 144 which was produced in the 1920s & 1930s. The original brushed ware vase was decorated with a leaf and cattail pattern featuring two herons. The 144 vase was selected as the 2004 Commemorative since it is a type of Red Wing produced product, which has not been featured as a Commemorative previously. The 2004 Commemorative is typical of brushed ware pieces in that it features a nature theme. The 2004 Commemorative is colored on the exterior in a brushed matte green and then finished with the application of a glossy green interior glaze. The interior glaze is applied to make the vase waterproof and functional. The number 144 vases were originally produced in 8, 10 and 12 inch height sizes according to the August, 1931 Price List. A 6 inch vase with the 144 design exists, but has not been found to be marked with either the shape number or a Red Wing ink stamp. Brushed ware products, of similar design were produced by several other potteries of the era. Red Wing Union Stoneware Company produced brushed ware for use in the home, garden, by florists and in cemeteries. A series of jardinieres, large vases, sand /lobby jars and umbrella stands were produced for use in commercial and public buildings. Original sand/lobby jars can still be found in daily use inside a couple private clubs located on cathedral hill in St. Paul, Minnesota. The 2004 Commemorative was produced at Wester Stoneware in Monmouth, Illinois. The vase was made with a three-part mold. The vase was removed from the mold and allowed to dry for two days. After that point, the matte green exterior finish is applied and then hand brushed to reveal the details of the exterior decoration. The interior then has its glaze sprayed on and the bottom ink stamp applied. The vase was then fired, allowed to cool, packed in individual boxes and put into cases for shipment. This was the first brushed ware/piece Western Stoneware has produced in many years.

The 2004 Special Commemorative is the number 144 vase decorated in a blue-green matte brushed exterior finish with a blue-green interior glaze applied. The entire piece is then covered with a clear glaze. Commemoratives are awarded as prizes for participants in the Convention Display, awarded to random members for volunteering, attending convention, submitting newsletter articles, attending the annual meeting.