Native Americans in New England began making clay pots about 3,000 years ago. By 1200 years ago an increase in the diversity and complexity of designs placed on pottery, as the Native American population in New England increased and groups began to live in one place for longer periods of time.
Ceramic styles are a visual way for groups to identify and distinguish themselves.
The shape and design style of clay pots which recur across southern New England is called the Windsor Tradition by archaeologists in this region. The motifs and designs found on clay pipes are similar to those found on clay pots. Clay pipes made by Native Americans are both elbow-shaped and also made in a straight cone form. Elbow pipes often had human, animal or bird figures attached to their bowl. Effigy designs include castellated points, birds, owl, fox, bear and human figures.