The pipe making industry flourished until the beginning of the 20th century when cigarettes became more popular than pipe smoking. As a result, the commercial production of clay pipes dwindled and ceased in the 1960s.

Are clay smoking pipes still used?

Its still routinely used in public sewer systems today. Modern installations include encasing the clay pipes in concrete to protect against root intrusion and damage from ground shifting. You might be surprised to learn that some still-functioning clay pipe systems in America were installed over 100 years ago.

When did clay tobacco pipes stop being used?

The 20th century also was to see a great increase in cigarette smoking, a fashion which in turn has nearly eliminated pipe smoking altogether. The last clay pipe manufacturer in Leeds was Samson Strongs who went out of production in 1950.

How long were clay pipes used?

Clay is one of the oldest piping materials in the world and in some places, its still used today. In the United States, it was the material of choice from the 1880s to the 1900s. Like brick and tile, clay pipe is heavy and transporting it was difficult, so many towns had their own clay pipe plants.

How do you clean a clay tobacco pipe?

To clean a clay pipe, gently wipe out the bowl with a slightly damp rag, or, for deeper cleaning, set it on the very top rack of your oven, as close to the top as possible, and set the oven to “Self-Cleaning” mode. This will eliminate any residue left in the pipe.