BLENKO - The People is our attempt to allow you to learn about the men and women who are a part of BLENKO, past and present.
Richard Blenko, CEO and 4th Generation BLENKO, graciously contributed this Memorial commemoration of Clayton Lunsford.Clayton Lunsford came to work at blenko around 1939 and went to WWII; several Blenko employees lost their lives during the war but Clayton came back to Blenko to work post War. He was about 5' 9 inches tall and weighed about 150 lbs and very well groomed. He was an extremely talented glass finisher and in spite of some health problems late in his career, continued tot be a fine glass blower. . He was of that class of individual who was always on time, at work and performing well day after day for 40 years. Most people do not realize how demanding it is to work in the heat of a glass factory. Clayton was always smiling and like those pre and just post war employees, very intelligent and had a great work ethic, that is impossible to find these days. I always remember he dressed well, had an air of cologne and was telling stories. He was in that group of employees that Blenko built their reputation on finely made glass and easy to work with in a demanding environment.He was master of blown Williamsburg stemware. He tirelessly waited for his wife, Mildred our office manager every day and every day for many years I spoke with him on the shop floor. He had two sons that I knew growing up in Milton and like their father, fine people. It is important that we remember these fine West Virginia craftsman and not forget them or forget their great skills. Their greatest legacy is that of fine people.*Photo graciously provided by www.blenkocollectors.com
9 comments:
Impressive that Rick Blenko takes time from his busy schedule to assist you with promoting the history of the individual workers.
We have learn so much about Blenko and know there is more to know.
Thank you for doing the research or making the contacts.
If there is a glass lovers heaven, you deserve a seat at the right hand of Chihuly or someone who keeps the lights on.
To know ones history makes the future light and bright.
Rick Blenko is just one terrfic young man. Much like his father, and G-Father.
Always polite, a gentleman and helpful to the community.
Margie Hale
More of these please.
Rick Blenko is just one terrfic young man. Much like his father, and G-Father.
Always polite, a gentleman and helpful to the community.
Margie Hale
More of these please.
These historial pieces are a blessing to the community. I like that you include photos and obits
sometimes.
Hilary
Thanks again for the blenko collector site I go there often
it is very good. I am glad you all are all so friendly and work together for Blenko. Nice when ladies get along.
MORE MORE
please do more of these!
I have my class read the blog
and especially these blenko people are of interest to us.
Emily R. Persinger
hello=)
hello=)
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