UNSEATED — The long-standing local landmark, which, for years, has been known as the World’s Largest Teapot, reportedly has been downsized. -- Contributed

CHESTER — Recent reports of Texas taking the title of “World’s Largest Teapot” have brewed up quite the stir, but Chester’s famous roadside icon is holding up just fine, according to local tourism officials.

In response to news that a recently constructed teapot in Texas now holds the record for size, the beloved West Virginia teapot isn’t boiling over. In fact, it’s steeped in good humor and hometown pride.

“We tip our lid to the new teapot on the block–but ours is still the original American roadside legend,” said Rachel Keeney, director of the Top of West Virginia Convention and Visitors Bureau. “For over 80 years, the Chester teapot has brewed smiles, sparked road trips, and stood tall as a symbol of community pride.”

Originally built as a giant root beer barrel in Pennsylvania, the Chester teapot was repurposed in 1938 to honor the region’s rich pottery heritage. Today, it remains a cherished roadside attraction with tons of “pour-sonality,” and a symbol of West Virginia’s quirky nature and warm welcomes.

“We welcome a little friendly competition,” added Keeney. “If people are out there building giant teapots, that just means the love for oddball roadside attractions is alive and well. Texas may have raised the bar, but we’ll raise our spout.”

The local tourism organization is using the news as an opportunity to celebrate the Chester teapot’s legacy and encourage fans to share their favorite teapot memories, photos, and tea puns on social media using the #SteepedInWV hashtag.