Mugs Getting Their Shots at the Library

A collection of unique Toby Mugs is gracing the main display case on the main floor of the Rockville Public Public Library.

The library is located at 52 Union Street. 

The collection belongs to library staff member Lynn Horka. She began collecting the ceramic pieces about 20 years ago when she inherited one from her grandmother.

Toby mugs, possibly named after Sir Toby Belch, a character in Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night, were first created in Great Britain in the early eighteenth century and have been popular ever since.

They are designed to resemble either recognized characters, such as sailors, or well known historical figures. Many of the mug handles are molded to highlight something memorable about the character the mug represents.

Horka’s collection includes pieces created by Royal Doulton, and some  made by friends in ceramics classes.

The display includes the traditional sailors and pub-goers, but also a row that includes George Washington, Abraham Lincoln, Ronald Reagan and Winston Churchill.

Santa and one of his elves also pay a visit to the display.

For more information, call the library at 860-875-5892, ext. 21.