St. Marys 2 Gallon Stoneware Jug

St. Marys, Ontario. 1860s-1870s. Salt-glazed stoneware. A nicely decorated stoneware jug which represents something of a mystery. Who was this merchant and why was his name scratched out? We know he was a grocer and the only parts of his name that are legible are the W at the beginning and N at the end. This appears to be a Brantford-made jug by the spout and style of flower, possibly an earlier piece (1860s). Stamped, "WN / Grocer/ St. Mary's". 13.75" x 8.25" Dia. From the Late Mike O'Hara Collection.
Condition Report: Most of the stamp has been ground out. Some fry to the cobalt resulting in minor loss. Base edge chip at back, 3/4 inch. Some light staining to the body.