How far back does the history of Spode china go?

Spode is one of the oldest and most prestigious English pottery companies. Its history dates back to 1765 when Josiah Spode (1733–1797) began producing earthenware in Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire, England. Spode's company quickly gained a reputation for producing high-quality cream-colored earthenware, and by the end of the 18th century, it was one of the leading pottery manufacturers in England.