In a message dated 2/16/2000 12:44:12 PM Eastern Standard Time, [log in to unmask] writes: << I'm trying to find solid sources on the history of ceramic tile used for residential fireplace surrounds and in bathrooms around 1900. >> Yo, Cuz! What's happenin', baby? My reproduction copy of the "Victorian Design Book," nee 'Universal Design Book' of the Wholesale Sash, Door and Blind Manufacturers' Association of the Northwest (damn Canucks again) of 1903 shows several cuts with that blotchy-looking ceramic tile used as firebox surround. It was also at the World Famous Rosson House in Phoenix (1895), and was used in several of the c. 1887 houses in my former neighborhood in Joisey City, but I can't vouch for it as an unquestionably original feature in JC; on the other hand, there was enough of it that it very likely was an original feature of those spec rowhouses. Hope this helps. Ralph