The Foley Is the furthest portion of the three-fold division making up the Fentons, and is situated entirely in Fenton-Culvert. It is not known whether the name derives from the Lords Foley, former proprietors of the adjoining manor of Longton, where they were instrumental in opening up the iron mines in the Normacot area. By the end of the 16th century the furnace there was producing a significant proportion of Britain's pig iron. Foley House was situated just south of King Street between the districts of Fenton and Longton known latterly as Lane End.

The potteries grew up alongside the mine workings making use of the coal seam (the access to clay being only a minor reason for their location) 

In 1829 The Foley had only a few houses and three manufactories in it - Messrs. Elkin, Knight and Bridgwood., C. Bourne Esq. (Both earthenware manufacturers0 and Mr. Myatt (listed in the 1828/9 Trade Directory for the Potteries as a shopkeeper).

Elkin, Knight & Co. were the predominant potters in the area, producing goods of a superior quality from premises called Foley Potteries which, in addition to its customary pottery buildings, had the advantage of a powerful Steam Engine and Flint Mill. (See Chronology Page)