Title

Heart of Glass - Blenko Glass

Blenko Glass is a West Virginia treasure that spans generations. Nothing symbolizes the state of West Virginia better or more beautifully than Blenko Glass. We will discuss current and former craftsmen and designers and how important it is that Blenko and West Virginia glass be appreciated and valued by the younger generation.

Sunday, October 05, 2008

RONALD REAGAN INAUGURATION January 1981


This Inaugural vase, by Blenko Glass, was created for President Ronald Regan and is now permanently housed at the State Capitol Complex. We have been unable to find any background information on this piece - if YOU know the story behind the Regan inauguration vase, please comment or email theblenkoproject@aol.com.

Currently on ebay, there is a "PRESENTATION SET for NANCY REAGAN for the occasion of the RONAL REAGAN INAUGURATION January 1981 With Personalized inscription by W. H. BLENKO".

It is our guess that the piece at the Captiol was designed by in-house artist at the time Don Shepard and used as a centerpiece for the inaugural dinner, while the privately owned set was a gift from Mr. Blenko to the Regans, however again - any information on the origins of these pieces would be much appreciated!

7 comments:

WV Janis said...

I'll bet Mr. Blenko will know about the Reagan piece. BLENKO really needs an archivist to document these history making events.

WV Janis

WV Janis said...

I'll bet Mr. Blenko will know about the Reagan piece. BLENKO really needs an archivist to document these history making events.

WV Janis

Anonymous said...

Hilly
My Mother owns this set. She has been at every 'Repub' Presidential Inag. since I can remember, she's in Europe with friends on vacation, but I will get you an answer.
Sol

sweetdoc said...

This is 3 pieces?

sweetdoc said...

Not very creative or colorful.

Anonymous said...

Ms. Homburg
Huntington Herald On Line
Thank You!
I don't live near WV and buy Blenko on 2nd market or by UPS.
Seeing the unusual pieces, reading the history, the gossip, and seeing the photos of the factory workers makes me feel very close to the company. Also makes my friends think I have knowledge.
Appreciate all that you do.
Dan
Mount Pleasant, SC

bridgett said...

Sol
If your mom wants to sell, post the info on this blog.
Also I am looking for W.Virginia Birthday pieces have 9 so far, anyone have those they want to part with?