Niles Deneen
Favorite part of working at Deneen Pottery? Everything! Working alongside and inspiring our awesome staff and assisting our incredible customers. Getting to be around such a creative process and talented artists - the variety of 'opportunities' that fill my day keep me on my toes. Witnessing the transformation from proof to product.
In 2020, Martha Hunter wrote a heartfelt article about Deneen Pottery’s partnership with the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, highlighting how their handcrafted mugs celebrate the beauty and legacy of America’s national parks. Four years later, Deneen’s commitment to national parks remains unwavering — even as these cherished spaces face unprecedented challenges.
The Great Smoky Mountains
Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most visited national park in the United States, spanning the border between North Carolina and Tennessee. Known for its mist-covered mountains, diverse plant and animal life, and well-preserved Appalachian culture, the park covers over 500,000 acres. It features more than 800 miles of hiking trails, historic buildings, waterfalls, and scenic drives. The park is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized for its biodiversity and natural beauty. Its rich history and ecological importance make it a treasured part of America’s landscape. Click here to learn more!
A Legacy of Craftsmanship and Conservation
Deneen Pottery’s relationship with the national parks began with a simple yet profound mission: to create mugs that not only serve as keepsakes but also support the preservation of these iconic places. Each mug is crafted by skilled artisans in Minnesota, featuring hand-drawn designs that reflect the natural beauty of America’s most treasured landscapes. From the rugged peaks of the Rockies to the lush forests of the Great Smokies, Deneen Pottery’s mugs aim to evoke memories of adventure and connection with nature. Shop Great Smokies Mug here.
In her 2020 article, Martha Hunter emphasized how the partnership with the Great Smoky Mountains National Park was more than just a business decision — it was about supporting the parks’ mission to educate, inspire, and protect. Niles Deneen, the company’s president, shared that the goal of the national park mugs is to create “something special” that helps people remember their time in the parks. “We want our mugs to be more than just a piece of pottery,” Niles said. “It’s about capturing a moment in time and preserving that connection to nature.”
Niles also spoke about the deeper meaning behind the partnership: “We are proud to support the National Park Service and its mission to protect these incredible places. It’s not just about the mugs — it’s about helping to ensure these parks remain accessible and beautiful for future generations.”
Challenges Facing National Parks in 2024
Today, America’s national parks are under threat from severe budget cuts. A recent report from the National Parks Conservation Association (NPCA) warns that the House of Representatives passed a fiscal year 2024 spending bill that slashes $433 million (12.5%) from the National Park Service’s budget. This reduction could result in as many as 1,000 fewer staff members, closed facilities, and diminished resources for protecting wildlife and historic sites.
Theresa Pierno, President and CEO of the NPCA, stressed that these cuts would have a devastating impact on both the parks and the communities that depend on them. National parks generate billions of dollars annually for local economies, supporting hundreds of thousands of jobs. With visitation increasing by 10% from 2012 to 2022 while staffing declined by 13%, the parks were already operating under strain. These new cuts threaten to push them to a breaking point. Check out the Full Article here.
Why This Matters More Than Ever
National parks are more than just recreational spaces — they are part of America’s cultural and natural identity. They preserve the stories of indigenous peoples, the legacies of early settlers, and the diverse ecosystems that make up the country’s landscape. They are places of reflection, education, and inspiration.
When park budgets are cut, it’s not just about fewer rangers or maintenance issues. It’s about losing the ability to protect fragile ecosystems, historical landmarks, and visitor safety. Closed visitor centers mean fewer educational opportunities for children and families. Reduced staff means slower emergency response times, increased environmental degradation, and compromised visitor experiences.
Deneen Pottery’s Continued Support
In the face of these challenges, Deneen Pottery remains committed to supporting America’s national parks. The company understands that these spaces need more protection, not less. That’s why Deneen continues to partner with national park foundations and nonprofit organizations, using its platform to raise awareness and funds for park preservation.
For Deneen, every mug sold is a small but meaningful contribution toward the greater mission of protecting national parks. The company’s dedication to sustainable practices, including solar-powered kilns and local sourcing, reflects a broader commitment to environmental stewardship. By purchasing a Deneen Pottery national park mug, customers are not only taking home a piece of history — they are actively contributing to the future of these treasured spaces. Shop National Park Mugs here.
How You Can Help
Now more than ever, our national parks need support. The NPCA urges citizens to contact their representatives and advocate for increased park funding. Visiting parks, volunteering, and supporting businesses like Deneen Pottery that give back to the parks are also meaningful ways to make a difference.
Investing in national parks is not just an environmental issue — it’s an economic and cultural one. Every dollar spent on the National Park Service generates $15 in economic activity, supporting local businesses and creating jobs. Protecting these spaces means preserving a piece of America’s identity for future generations.
A Call to Action
Deneen Pottery stands with the NPCA in opposing these damaging budget cuts. As a company deeply rooted in American craftsmanship and tradition, Deneen recognizes the importance of protecting the places that inspire our work. Their national park mugs are more than just souvenirs — they are symbols of a shared commitment to conservation and stewardship.
By supporting Deneen Pottery and the NPCA’s efforts, you are helping to ensure that America’s national parks remain vibrant and accessible for generations to come. Our parks are a gift — one that requires care, protection, and ongoing support. Let’s stand together to protect them.
For more information about National Park Mugs visit Deneen Pottery’s National Park Guide. To learn more about the NPCA’s fight against budget cuts and how you can get involved, visit NPCA’s website.
Niles Deneen
Favorite part of working at Deneen Pottery? Everything! Working alongside and inspiring our awesome staff and assisting our incredible customers. Getting to be around such a creative process and talented artists - the variety of 'opportunities' that fill my day keep me on my toes. Witnessing the transformation from proof to product.
