Introduction
Peterson of Dublin is one of the most recognisable pipe brands globally. With a vivid history dating back as far as 1865, the company came from humble beginnings and made it to the centre stage of global pipe culture. Originally founded by the German
Kapp brothers (Friedrich & Heinrich), immigrants who had travelled from Nuremberg to Ireland, its doors were opened in Grafton Street. To learn more about the fascinating history of Peterson’s, CLICK HERE to read our previous blog.
Churchwardens
A Brief History
In this blog we will be looking specifically at Peterson’s excellent Churchwarden pipes. For those who haven’t been introduced to this style of pipe we will outline the design choices and resulting benefits these long stemmed pipes provide.
The origin of the Churchwarden pipe can be dated back to the late 1700s / early 1800s. Influenced by the Oriental pipes circulating during the Napoleonic wars, Churchwarden pipes were originally made from clay.
Whilst we know these pipes by the name Churchwarden (the name given to night watchmen tasked with guarding churches) countries such as Germany called them Reading Pipes. This probably results from the length of the pipe’s stem allowing the user to avert the smoke from their face.
Perhaps the biggest selling point of the Churchwarden design that spurred on its popularity is the cool smoking experience the long stem provides.
Ranging anywhere from 10 to 16 inches, the time it takes for the smoke to travel from bowl to mouthpiece drastically cools even the hottest burning tobaccos.
Over the years these pipes have come in and out of fashion but the early 2000’s saw a resurgence in their popularity post release of Peter Jackson’s Lord Of The Rings feature films. Many fans of the franchise fondly refer to them as Gandalf pipes, after the pivotal wizard of the same name who can be seen smoking a long pipe similar to that of a Churchwarden.
Master Craftsmanship
Rest assured, when purchasing a Peterson pipe satisfaction is guaranteed. The extensive history and subsequent knowledge accrued means Peterson’s has managed to get pipe manufacturing down to something of an art and science simultaneously.
The Peterson factory in Ireland is “the oldest continuously operating briar pipe factory in the world.”
Staff choose only the best blocks of Italian briar, ageing them to perfection. A mixture of machine and freehand techniques are employed in creating the pipe before they are finished in a variety of styles.
For the Churchwardens the special long vulcanite stems are made, before being finally banded and stamped with the iconic Peterson branding.
It was back in 1945 when Peterson’s first released a range of Churchwardens. Demand has persisted ever since, a testament to the quality of these pipes.
Churchwarden D6 Bent Pipes
The initial “D” refers to Denmark, the original designated market this style of pipe was fashioned for. Designed to appeal to the aesthetics favoured by Danish pipe smokers, the pipe features a unique Dublin bowl that has some similarities to a horn.
Peterson describes it as “ a more slender and fluid form than many of our traditional designs.” Two different finishes are available.
First, the smooth finish. This traditional finish displays the spectacular swirling grain of the pipe underneath a rich reddish brown polish. It would be fair to say that this is the archetypal Peterson style, instantly recognisable from a distance.
The second is a distinguished rusticated finish. An iconic two tone rustication technique exclusive to Peterson’s is employed. This results in a deep mottled exterior that is black on the surface with hints of a reddish brown below. Besides the visual differences, the rustic pipe also has the added benefit of its bowl remaining cooler for longer. This is a result owed to the heat dispersal over the uneven surface.
Both of these pipes are mounted with a silver band and emblazoned with the “P” insignia as a sign of authenticity. Another thing to note is the price. Peterson has priced them as entry level pipes, making them the most affordable option for anyone looking to purchase a Peterson pipe.
Churchwarden Smooth D15 Bent Pipe
The Peterson D15, as with the D6, was designed originally for the Danish market. A more traditional tapered Dublin bowl is paired with a vulcanite stem featuring a pronounced bend.
A spectacular finish has been applied to the bowl described by Peterson’s as “a rich, warm walnut stain that highlights the bowl’s natural grain patterns.” The heel of the pipe is perfectly designed to sit comfortably in one’s hand.
Another entry level priced Churchwarden, the D15 features all the accoutrements of the D6. Whether this is your first Churchwarden or another addition to your collection, this pipe is sure to impress and win a special place in your heart.