Show and Tell - You Respond # 4

I don't recognize this but she reports - it does have a sand blast BLENKO on the bottom. This item belongs to Meg O'Connor of North Carolina and it is from her Mom's estate (may be very old or bought some time before her Mom died in 2005) . Can you help Meg O'Connor identify this bottle? hjh

Blenko Collector Society Membership - Great Holiday GIft

The BLENKO COLLECTORS SOCIETY is a group of people who collect BLENKO GLASS. Become a part of this group - learn more about BLENKO GLASS, the history, what is valuable, most sought after etc. You may join on line, there is a link from the BLENKO GLASS COMPANY web site, and also a link from the BLENKO PROJECT web site. I will do a more complete post about the BCS later, when they send the information. But ITS NOT TO LATE TO GIVE A MEMBERSHIP FOR CHRISTMAS! Memberships are actually the ideal gift - no concern about size, color, diet restrictions. . .just pure enjoyment at a very low cost. jhj

GIFT IDEA - Membership, Imperial Glass Collectors

Mr. Jim Swanson, the Publicity chair of NIGCS, graciously provided the following information about the National Imperial Glass Collectors Society.

THE NATIONAL IMPERIAL GLASS COLLECTORS SOCIETY (NIGCS)

NIGCS is an organization made up of Imperial Glass Collectors. The society has approximately 1100 members from all over the country and Canada. Primary yearly membership dues are $18; Associate members, occupying the same house, $3 each; and new this year is the provision that a student has free membership until graduating from college.

The organization is governed by a Board of Trustees elected by the general membership. A convention is held every June and includes an Imperial glass auction, a banquet, various workshops, seminars, and a Glass Sale and Show. This event averages approximately 250 attendees each year and is held in St. Clairsville, Ohio. This past year the organization celebrated its 30th Anniversary. In October, a fall auction is held in Bellaire, Ohio.

The Imperial Glass factory in Bellaire, Ohio, is no longer standing after having created glass items for eighty years. At the onset, production ranged from utilitarian glassware to electric and gas lampshades. Then, over the next twenty years, the company transitioned to making pressed patterns, Iridescent Ware (early Carnival), Free Hand and Lead Lustre. Depression and Elegant patterns, beverage ware, Cathay and Milk Glass would follow from the 1930’s to 1950’s. Slag Glass, reissued Carnival, Collectors Crystal, Peachblow, and numerous gift-type glassware would be made before the company closed its doors in l984.

In the 1930’s, two of Imperial’s best known designs were originated. The first was Cape Cod in 1931, followed by Candlewick in 1936. These two pattern lines proved to be exceedingly popular with buyers for nearly fifty years. In fact, Candlewick became one of the company’s biggest success stories. Today Candlewick is the line most people readily equate with the Imperial Glass Corporation.

In June of 2003, NIGCS opened the National Imperial Glass Museum located at 3200 Belmont Street, Bellaire, Ohio, which is open April through October each year. The museum is dedicated to the glassware and the people who worked at Imperial. The National Glass Collectors Society hopes that, by creating the museum, they can keep alive the story of Imperial, one of the largest and most diverse of the companies that made up the American hand-made glass industry. On display at the museum are many fine examples of Imperial glassware, created from 1904 to 1984.

Last Minute Shopping? Think BLENKO!

BLENKO GLASS in Milton, W.Va. is now OPEN and has a large supply of HOLIDAY GIFTS! GLass - and more GLASS . . . many items marked clearance price! Now is the time to find that last minute HOLIDAY GIFT! phone 304 743 9081 for directions Photo of a Lamp base designed by Winslow Anderson , while this item isn't available many other LAMPS are currently available at BLENKO VISITORS CENTER

Glass Terms - Vocabulary

When first ask to do this Blog - I was hesitant as there is so much I don't know and I am very busy with school. But I thought perhaps it would or could be a learning tool for me, and also a way for others to learn about Blenko and WV Made Glass. Thus, the journey began, writing three or four times a week - mostly unedited thoughts, or answers to your questions. I am grateful when you write, either to comment on the blog or send an email. WV made Glass is very important to me - most especially Blenko Glass. The manufacturing of Glass in the USA is dying and will continue to die unless we start to demand made in the USA glass. We must begin to seek out local craftsmen, and purchase items made here in WV made by our local people, local manufacturers. Last night I realized I have done little to educate - so today we will have a lesson in vocabulary. While interviewing the older craftsmen they often used these terms and I had 'no clue' what they meant. Lesson # 1 Glass terms - Stipple - Design used in pressed glass consisting of small bumps of glass very close together and may be evenly spaced or random. The stippling was usually a background for main pressed pattern on the glass. STAIN - An inexpensive way to color all or part of a piece of glass. The part of the piece of glass that is to be colored is covered with metallic paint while the glass is cold. Most stains result in a ruby or cranberry color; but some stains may be amber, blue or other colors. Stain is very often mistakenly called flashed or flashing. ANNEALING - the process of slowly cooling glass items after they are made. The process is necessary to stabilize the glass molecules to keep the item from shattering. Annealing in glass factories was done in a lehr. Lehr - A machine in the form of a long 'tunnel' used to cool glass after manufacture. It contained a slow - moving belt made of a stury material such as wire mesh. The glass item was placed in at the hottest end of the lehr as soon as the shaping of the glass was finished. The article then started a trip of perhaps several hours to the other end of the lehr as it was slowly cooled. The end of the lehr that first received the glass item was usually near the furnace. The end where the cooled item was removed was usually near the shipping or decorating area of the factory. NOTE: The vocabulary definitons were taken from 'ALL ABOUT GLASS - a publication of the WV MUSEUM OF GLASS Vol. 2 No.1. (photo of Mr. Bill Blenko (WH BLENKO President of Blenko Glass Company taken 11/26/2006)

Shorty Finley Working At Blenko?

RUMOR HAS IT - that Shorty Finley is working at Blenko one or two days the last month - - will these 'special items' be on sale in the BLENKO GIFT SHOP? I think its worth the drive to Milton to search the bins for items with Shorty Finley's signature! Happy Hunting. If you are lucky enough to buy anything made by Shorty, please send a photo! hjh NOTE: Photo of Everette 'Shorty ' Finley and Mr. Bill Blenko.

Blenko Visitors Center - Upstairs

Another photos of the art in the Blenko Visitors Center Museum located on 2nd floor. Phone 304 743 9081. NOTE: The HOliday Sale Continues at the BLENKO VISITORS CENTER OUTLET

Blenko Visitors Center - Museum

Another of the panels of glass located in the Blenko Glass Company Visitors Center, Milton, WVa (phone 304 743 9081) Great 'Holiday Sale' still going on - the self guided tour of the craftsmen working - the museum upstairs - This is a great destination for a day trip. When you give BLENKO, or Fiesta, or Fenton, or any other made in WV product, you give a bit of our state history, doesn't it feel good to pass along a 'gift' that was made in W.Va.
hjh

Show and Tell - You Respond # 3

The West Virginia University
Mountaineer
Karen Preston sent this photo - she was one of the lucky people who stood in line to purchase a BLENKO #384 Water Bottle . These WVU
water bottles - with the FLYING W V or the Mountaineer are currently available - phone 304 743 9081. NOTE: Thank you Karen for the photo!

Laura Moul, Photographer - BLENKO GLASS

We neglected to cite Laura Moul as the source of the photograph of RANDY RIDER in yesterdays post. Laura Moul, is a Milton resident, she is an art teacher, and also a professional photographer. Her work includes photos of Blenko employees, and the glass making process - copies of these photos in the form of note cards ($5), and paper weights ($8) are for sale at the Blenko Visitors Center.

These cards/paperweights can be added to the Blenko gift of glass - or be the 'gift'. Blenko Glass photographs beautifully, recently a reader sent me a link to RICK LEE a Charleston Photographers web site. Mr. Lee has a page or two of beautiful Blenko Glass photographs. I can't seem to make the link work- if you can't find his site - email me and I'll sent it to you. Also, Mr. Hindman, photographer, for the Charleston Newspaper does excellent photographs of Blenko Glass. Hanging over my fireplace is a photograph of Blenko Glass , Hindman took in 2005. Hindman also has a web site . Probably both Lee and Hindman would allow you to purchase photographs of BLENKO . hjh

Blenko The People - RANDY RIDER - Finisher

Randy Rider grew up in Milton, and graduated from Miltion High, but says he never knew anything while growing up about the glass factory in his own backyard. It wasn't until a friend told him about a job at the Blenko factory that he knew of the company. Mr. Rider went to Blenko to apply, and was hired the same day. He has been there ever since.

Randy came to Blenko Glass Company as a very young man. His goal is to retire with the longest number of years of service. Randy Rider is high energy. He says, he loves to learn. He freely gives credit to the 'old timers' for his skill. The 'old timers' in turn say " he just had raw talent and the determination to learn." Randy Rider is a showman, if he weren't a glass company employee you have the feeling he could be very successful selling insurance, cars, being on stage as an actor. He has talent, he also has a great passion for the Blenko Glass Company, when he speaks about Blenko - he always says " WE" he speaks with pride, he is quick to give praise and credit to his co workers and also the new management at Blenko. Randy Rider is very positive about Blenko Glass's future. He states: "we make the very best handcrafted glass in the world," . . "we have difficultly competiting with countries that have no set wages, and little environmental guidelines, but in terms of quality . . . NO ONE can beat Blenko Glass." " This is a family company, and we are all part of the family."

Some Quick Facts about Randy Rider:

• He has been working at Blenko for 26 years (since 198o).
• Mr. Rider has hled every position in the Blenko factory except blower. He started his time at the factory as a Stick-up and is now an accomplished finisher.
• The thing Randy likes most about his job is the creativity working with glass allows.
• He himself collects Blenko decanters and animal figurines.
• When not working at Blenko, Randy Rider enjoys hunting and fishing.

W.V.U. and BLENKO - A Great Holiday GIft!

One gift - a 384 water bottle - the longest running single item in the Blenko Glass Company line. . . Now available for the very first time with the WEST VIRGINIA UNIVERSITY flying WV or the MOUNTAINEER in gold leaf . . . . A gift that symbolized the 100 year tradition of BLENKO Glass which is handmade in West Virginia, a fine quality glass and our State University. What an AWESOME combination. These bottles are available by phone 304 743 9081. The cost is $67 Note: The bottles may also be available for purchase at the Visitors Center. I would recommend phoning to reserve your #384 .

Gift Giving Idea - Membership in WV MUSEUM OF GLASS

Probably the most established, unique, and well known of the West Virginia Glass Groups is the the West Virginia Museum of Glass. The Contributing advisor list reads like 'Who's Who In The World of Glass' yet, they are all approachable and willing to share their knowledge. For years I borrowed copies of the All About Glass , their publication, for it is a great resource tool. I find even those with little interest in glass will pick up this publication and look at the photos. This is a first class little publication that concentrates on glass made in American and primarily in West Virginia. When asked about the WV Museum of Glass, Dean Six explained: "There are two distinct things going on here.
One is the Weston Area Glass Study Group which is the core from which the WV Museum of American Glass was born.
The Weston Area Study Group meets every month in the museum, has no officers, no dues and no business. We ONLY talk about glass and glass related information. It is a show and tell format with assistance to each other with Identification as well as sharing what we each have discovered since last meeting. We gather each fourth Wednesday at 7:00PM in Weston. We’ve met for almost 15 years and, having no dues etc. have no real “membership” - show up and you are one of us! Monthly attendance averages somewhere in the 15-25 people range. "

The West Virginia Museum of American Glass, Ltd. is a membership organization with over 500 members in nearly 40 states and Canada. It maintains a 10,000 sq foot glass museum that has no admission charge on Main Ave in Weston. The museum was chartered in 1993 and has maintained a public museum since 1997. Officers are elected by the Weston Area Glass Study Group and the board members are appointed by the board to create a balance of local and national power and interest. Board members represent six states. WVMAG develops and promotes a number of public educational programs ranging from the popular annual glass history conference that travels the US and Canada, to WVMAG’s 11th annual Marble Festival for children and advanced marble historians, and an annual bottle and jar show. WVMAG has numerous other activities and programs, all related to glass. The museum publishes the nations largest selection of imprints on glass in it’s 50 plus titles monograph series, has authored two books using the museum archives as a resource, and publishes a widely acclaimed quarterly magazine for glass collectors titled All About Glass (http://www.allaboutglass.org/). The museum collection numbers nearly 10,000 glass objects as well as extensive archives and a world class glass catalog collection for research. Membership in WVAMG includes $500 benefactor level memberships, $100 patron level, sustaining level at $50, supporting at $35, all of which include the magazine and discounts on all programs and imprints or a subscription level membership to receive the magazine at $25 per year. Note: Check out the website and consider joining or making a donation in honor of your loved one as a Holiday Gift!

Blenko Glass in Milton - Museum/ Art Gallery Upstairs

Blenko Glass Company in Milton, West Virginia. The Visitors Center houses a gift shop on the first floor , the second floor contains a glass museum focusing on Blenko's history. Many vintage pieces of Blenko Glass. On the walls along with the historical documents are unique stain glass pieces constructed by well known artist. The Blenko Visitors Center is a great place to spend an afternoon - shopping and learning! hjh

Vintage Blenko is Awesome - Buy something new Today and Begin the Aging Process!

Another great example of Blenko glass barware #497M. This piece was also designed by Winslow Anderson.
The Blenko visitors Center Gift Shop has a wide selection of tableware. While most items are in the 2005 -2006 catalogue some items are one of a kind. This shop is a 'glass lovers' dream. You must take your time, and check all the shelves and look under the shelves. Now having encouraged you to shop for awesome new glass, I am posting another photo from the collection of Tim and Karin Alonzo of Texas. Note: There are many collections on line - at the www.blenkoproject.org, on the Blenko Collectors web site, and Blenko - Four web site. Do a google search for blenko collections/photos. If you have photos of BLenko you want to share - please send them. hjh

Vintage Blenko

This twisted stem compote set in a fanatastic shade of ruby are design numbers 444B and 444CP. These are referred to as "predesigner" before Blenko hired its first designer Winslow Anderson in 1947.

From the collection of Tim and Karin Alonzo of Texas

384 Water Bottle

My mail is always an interesting combination of bills, offers for credit cards, advertisements and the occassional letter from a glass collector or person who shares my interest in glass. This morning, I'm on my way to take an Operative final exam - - when this photo arrived...the question: 'is this Blenko?' Made me smile, as this is one I can answer. Most often, I don't immediately know the answer to the question and I forward the notes to those people who actually have knowledge and/or time the time to find the answers. However, today is different, this is a photo of a # 384 water bottle from Blenko. Perhaps a sign that I will do well on my operative exam!

Holiday GIft Giving - Glass Club Membership

A membership to one of the many fine Glass Collectors Club would make a wonderful Christmas gift.
BLENKO COLLECTORS SOCIETY, Fiesta, Imperial, Cambridge, Fostoria, WV MUSEUM OF GLASS, and many other organizations focus primarily on collecting made in WVa and/ or made IN AMERICA glass. The membership fees are inexpensive.
I had hoped to write about each before Christmas, including the fees to join. Most of this information is easily obtained with a Google search, if your loved one has a specific glass collection - do the Google search and purchase a membership.
If you are a regular reader, you know I often site the WV Museum of Glass Magazines as a reference source - just last evening I discovered the green vase in my bathroom in Imperial and was made in 1983 - the last Cathy made by Imperial. . .I phoned my Dad with the 'news' which wasn't news to him, since he purchased the vase in 1982 (long before my birth) as a gift for my mother. Long story to say, this magazine has many photos, short articles, and is packed with information that even a brain dead student will enjoy.
If you can only join one group I would start with the WV Museum of Glass. * post follows with info about this group.
THE BLENKO COLLECTORS SOCIETY membership is also a great gift. You get a 'slick, newsletter with color photos' very professional newsletter, articles are focused on Blenko old and new. If you collect Blenko or want to start a collection. Joining the BCS is a smart first step. Look for a future post about the BCS. HJH

BLENKO THE PEOPLE - RANDY RIDER

RANDY RIDER - BLENKO GLASS COMPANY glass blower will be the December Blenko featured employee. Look for Randy's story on 12/17/06.

You Respond - Where to Shop!

This was sent by Delorse McGuire of Boyd County, Ky. She states whatever glass she is looking for she first goes to this site: Welcome to Karen's Eclectic Treasures of Glass & Pottery!
Thank you for visiting our site and taking the time to learn about us. We welcome all inquiries and will do our best to answer any question you might have regarding our items, policies, procedures and terms of sale.
We offer a plethora of different items on our site! If you are looking for Depression Glass, Elegant Depression Glass, 40s, 50s, 60s Collectible Glass then we have many pages for you to peruse! I also have a soft spot for Art Glass, Early American Pattern Glass (EAPG), and anything Purple in glass! We also carry quite a bit of dinnerware, some art pottery and porcelain collectibles!
Of course, then we have the many other collectible items such as toys, books, and other fun items that just don't fit into one of the categories above easily!
Elegant Depression Glass & Depression Glass HJH

Show and Tell - You respond #2

Candy Gum Drops?
NO! It's a bowl of GLass Gun Drops. This is not Blenko but was made by former Blenko employee - Dave Osburn...Osburn Modern Glass and sent to us by Willam Oxley. Osburn Modern Glass is located in Milton, W. Va. NOTE: Send a photo of your favorite unusal piece of WV GLASS, do not send copyright photos hjh

New & Unusual Blenko - you respond

This is a photo sent by Dr. Bob Struab, he knew it was BLENKO, as it has a Blenko stamp but did not know it was one of the coveted WV Birthday Pieces. The bowl is very valuable and sought after by Blenko Collectors and Collectors of WV Birthday items. NOTE: Thank you for the photo. If you have an unusual or unique item of WV GLass send a photo hjh

Show and Tell

Blenko or other WV GLass - Do you have a 'great piece of Blenko or WV GLass ? Send a photo, tell us about the glass. Also if you have found a great place to buy glass - WV glass of course - new or previously owned - let us know. I get emails about where to buy...and honestly I live in Morgantown, West Virginia most all year long. I also am a college student with very little disposable income, and to be honest, I am NOT a shopper - so I am asking for your help. What are the best places in the Huntington - Charleston area for Glass Shopping? Note: If you send photos to be published make certain they are not copywrited photos.

New Antique/ Stain Glass Colors

Blenko Glass In Milton, West Virginia has long been known as one of the makers of the finest, and most colorful glass for the artist. Don Lemley reports Blenko has many new colors (Keep looking - we've ask him to write about the new colors and I'll post it soon) While many manufactures are going out of business or cutting back significantly on colors - Blenko is adding new and very interesting colors. If you are an artist, a decorator, builder, craftsperson Blenko Glass has most everything you need, they also have on staff a trained and very talented stain glass instructor to answer questions and / or help with projects. The antique/ stain glass department is available by phone 304 743 9081

BLENKO GLASS - stain glass artist shop here!

Blenko Glass not only sells the product for all stain glass compositions, they can help you find an artist to create the special window or door for your home. Blenko Glass has long been the place to go for both professional and hobby glass artist. I made my first documented (photos) trip to Blenko for stain glass items in 1987. For me its nearly 2 decades of shopping at blenko. . . recently I spoke with a stain glass artist in Columbus Ohio whose family has bought Blenko Glass to sell in their German Village shop for more than 50 years. Blenko Glass is superior. Phone 304 743 -9082 - Don Lemley - antique Glass Department

Don Lemley's Antique Glass Department

BLENKO GLASS COMPANY.
Buy made in West Virginia.
Buy quality - buy beauty!
This door with the beautiful matching side panels is an example of made in West Virginia.
This item was designed and constructed by Don Lemley using Blenko Glass. Blenko Glass Company can work with you and or your designer to make your entry doors and windows unique and special. Building...Think..Made IN West Virginia.
Think BLENKO!
Phone Don Lemley at Blenko Glass (304 743 9081).

Favorite ON Line or Other Place to Buy BLENKO?

We have several emails about where to buy BLENKO. I buy my glass at the BLENKO Visitors Center in Milton, West Virginia. IF you are reading this and You have a favorite on line or in town place to buy BLENKO - send an email or post the blog with the information, and I'll research the site and do a post to share the information. My goal is to have you buy Made In West Virginia Glass! To see the beauty in this product, to start collecting the items - most especially BLENKO. It has been my experience that glass cost at the Visitors Center are much less than the cost at other locations . When you write about your 'favorite' Blenko seller, include the address and items you find most often at this location. Thanks for sharing. HJH

Blenko Glass - Holiday Decoratons!

Looking for something unique, perhaps a house warming gift, a gift for your hostess, Blenko Glass has some unique one of a kind items at the Visitors Center. The Visitors Center has some Holiday inspired items - (not available on line or in the catalogue) - if you didn't get to Blenko for the opening of the Holiday Season Sale - plan to go this week. HJH

Blenko - Colorful glass awards...etc.

Blenko Glass located in Milton, W.Va. (phone 304 743 9081) produced these special pieces to be used as Awards. Blenko Glass produces pieces that may be engraved for most special occasions. HJH

Photos of Charlie Chapman at Blenko on 11/25/06

Photo of Richard Blenko signing

Line are always long, when Mr. Richard or Mr. WIlliam Blenko are available for signing - this is the photo from the Holiday Sale on friday.

Photo of Mr.Blenko and Rick Steelhammer

Another photo from the Friday Holiday Sale. Mr. Rick Steelhammer of the Charleston Newspapers interviewing Mr. Bill Blenko.

WE ARE MARSHALL !

Marshall University Fans and supporters looking for Holiday Gifts. Blenko Glass is the place to go.... they have buffalos (is it a buffalo mascot?) This NEW water bottle made especially for MARSHALL - certain, because of its limited availability, to become a sought after 'collector's item', can now be ordered. The initial production sold out in less than 12 minutes. Phone or go to the Blenko Glass Visitors Center to order your Marshall University waterbottle. HJH

Angels and Snowmen 2

Today LES WOMACK and a group of retired employees join BLENKO employees to do a demonstration of glass making. Each year Mr. Les Womack, returns to Blenko Glass for 3-4 weeks to make Christmas items. His special items are SNOWMEN and ANGELS. Les Womack produces the most beautiful Angels and Snowmen, he is exact in placing the eyes, buttons, wings. He is very particular about color, and form. Mr. Les Womack has no need for a quality control or inspector - as he would never allow a flaw in one of his Angels or Snowmen. IF you only purchase one new item for your Christmas Decor this year - - - consider the Angel and / or Snowman. I have a small collection setting on the fireplace, in October I bring out the Snowmen and I keep one Angel out all year long. They are so lovely, you don't really think Christmas . The Angel is ART! These items will make great gifts for CHILDREN of all ages. They are NOT mass produced, they are made only once a year for a short period of time. A great investment or the beginning of a collection. About three years ago - I met Les Womack for the fist time, he is a retired Blenko shop foreman. Very unassuming extremely strong,.yet when he speaks of Blenko and his wife, daughter, and granddaughter, you realize he is very gentle. His knowledge of Blenko and the glass making procedure is vast. Mr. Womack and his wife live in this lovely home, near the water - with a perfectly manicured lot, a home and garden that could be on the cover of any 'Ladies Magazine.' Mr. Womack is a perfectionist. Hunting, fishing, gardening, whatever he does there is a neat professional air to the procedure. After spending a few hours with him I could understand why he is considered a most valued friend, co-worker, shop foreman. Mr. Womack hasn't lost his ability to work in the chair, his ability to lead by example, his zest for work.
HJH

Blenko Glass

BLENKO GLASS & West Virginia University for me the combination is AWESOME! Blenko Glass is currently taking orders for this water bottle , these water bottles are the oldest/longest running item in the Blenko line. Actually BLENKO has MARSHALL UNIVERSITY and WVU 'specialty items' currently for sale at the Visitors Center. The initial product run of WVU/Marshall water bottles sold out in less than 12 minutes. You may order on line, at the Vistors Center or with credit card by phone. Note: This item may be available for a limited time - ideal gift for the WVU graduate. I hope to add photos of the Marshall items later this month - no photos were available to me.

Christmas Gift Giving / BLENKO

It's time to start shopping for the Holidays. . .and Blenko is the place to begin, the Visitors Center has many one of a kind items and they have a large assortment of items under $20 . If you can't get to the Visitors Center in Milton check out the online catalogue at the BLENKO GLASS website. I personally love looking for 'bargains' and those 'unusual items' at the Visitors Center, but the online catalogue is filled with gift ideas. When you give Blenko Glass, you are giving a piece of West Virginia, a piece of our state and nations history. If you aren't a Blenko Collector - let this be the time you become a Blenko Collector, or you start a collection for the young person in your life. NOTE: This photo was taken 11/25 of the Visitors Center - Blenko Glass Milton, W. VA. phone 304 743 8091

Made in West Virginia & Tidbits

At a recent talk someone ask if I buy only things made in WVa...the answer of course is NO! But I do have Fiestaware, it was my grandma's. I use it daily as did she. It is a quality product. Fiestaware is now available emblazoned with West Virginia Mountainteer and Flying WV logo ( if I can get a sample I'll post a photo) - IF - I ever have disposable income I will own a set or two of this WVU tableware. Before I knew Fiestaware was made in WVa I loved it for the color and the fact that it didn't break easily, and I was allowed to 'wash it', (this was long ago). Fiestaware is made to be used. It has become highly collectible. The Fiesta collectors, like the Fenton, Fostoria and Blenko collectors are a very knowledgeable and helpful group. The membership fees for these glass collector groups is minimal and they provide one with invaluable information and resources. We are in the process of sending letters to the six WVa Glass Collectors Clubs (if you know of others - please send email and I'll add them) to ask for information about membership , how many members they have, how they meet, how officers are selected, what perks one gets with membership etc.- I'll post the information here. We do or have belonged to Blenko, Fenton, Fostoria, Cambridge& Imperial so I have an email address for each of these groups. If you know someone who collects, or just wants to know more about WVa. Glass consider getting a membership as a Holiday Gift. I'll try to post the information about each group before 12/14.
hjh
As an adult I try to buy products made in the USA - my car is not but that's the subject of another post.

BLENKO HOLIDAY SALE

Friday November 24th was a beautiful sunny day in Milton, West Virginia. More than 2,00 people came to the Blenko Glass Company Visitors Center. Sales on glass - there were wonderful mark downs (still going on), great items for holiday gift giving. The sale area was filled with people, long lines awaiting Mr. Richard Blenko's signature on their special purchases. NOTE: IF someone is available to sign, stand in line and say Thank You!. Signed glass is much more valuable. The Blenko family (Mr. W and Richard) once again so generous with their time, taking the time to sign glass, speak with the public about glass making, the history of the company, and just answering most any question. HJH

Specials Items - For Christmas by Les Womack

Today LES WOMACK and a group of retired employees join BLENKO employees to do a demonstration of glass making. Each year Mr. Les Womack, returns to Blenko Glass for 3-4 weeks to make Christmas items. His special items are SNOWMEN and ANGELS. Les Womack produces the most beautiful Angels and Snowmen, he is exact in placing the eyes, buttons, wings. He is very particular about color, and form. Mr. Les Womack has no need for a quality control or inspector - as he would never allow a flaw in one of his Angels or Snowmen. IF you only purchase one new item for your Christmas Decor this year - - - consider the Angel and / or Snowman. I have a small collection setting on the fireplace, in October I bring out the Snowmen and I keep one Angel out all year long. They are so lovely, you don't really think Christmas . The Angel is ART! These items will make great gifts for CHILDREN of all ages. They are NOT mass produced, they are made only once a year for a short period of time. A great investment or the beginning of a collection. About three years ago - I met Les Womack for the fist time, he is a retired Blenko shop foreman. Very unassuming extremely strong,.yet when he speaks of Blenko and his wife, daughter, and granddaughter, you realize he is very gentle. His knowledge of Blenko and the glass making procedure is vast. Mr. Womack and his wife live in this lovely home, near the water - with a perfectly manicured lot, a home and garden that could be on the cover of any 'Ladies Magazine.' Mr. Womack is a perfectionist. Hunting, fishing, gardening, whatever he does there is a neat professional air to the procedure. After spending a few hours with him I could understand why he is considered a most valued friend, co-worker, shop foreman. Mr. Womack hasn't lost his ability to work in the chair, his ability to lead by example, his zest for work.

HJH

Thanksgiving Day - Family of Man

- Family of Man
Pictured here is a BLENKO GLASS item designed by Don Shepperd. There is some mystery to this figure - some folk say its the 'Family of Man' designed by Shepperd as a gift to very high donors for a charity. The figure shown belonged to an over 80 retired WVU employee - its dated 1979 and signed with Shepperd design mark. The story that came with this piece - - - and most older 'special' Blenko items have a story. . . is he (the owner) and Sheperd developed a friendship during his trips to Milton for supplies, he was there when the mold was being made and admired the concept. ' So simple, yet very strong' were the words he used then and now to describe Sheperd's design. He has the note from Shepperd that accompanied the shipment. I am aware of only one other existing original copy it is owned by my friend and mentor Steve Bair. Last year Blenko took out the mold and made several copies (estimates go from six to 18) - these will not have Don Sheperd's staff (signature). This item - the older ones are quiet valuable - if you find one BUY IT. This is another example of a wonderful collectible BLenko! Note: The Blenko B isn't orginal to his piece - I gave him the B to place on this item. 11/27/06 Note: Readers have responded with information of four known orignal 'family of man'. One reader wrote both he and another family member own one and place a value of over $1,000 on the item.

Only 2 days until Christmas Shopping

This is a 6 day vacation from Dental School - I've spent a good portion of this time removing boxes from my parents garage (so my Dad can again park both cars in the garage) - Boxes of trolls - anyone remember trolls - I collected these in grade school and judging from the size of my collection, my Uncles must have spent a fortune on trolls. Also a large collection of Pogs (bottle caps) anyone remember collecting these bottle liners? I had two boxes, some in plastic liners and some declaring themselves 'collectors series' - again it all went to the trash. Only the boxes of Barbie dolls and accessories survived - and they are now at the Goodwill Store.
Why you must be thinking .is Hillary sharing this? Hillary who hates self disclosure. . . actually during the cleaning my thoughts turned to BLENKO, if instead of Pogs, and Trolls I had been given simple little pieces of Blenko - or a water bottle collection had been started for me by one of my indulgent Uncles. Well the water bottles have increased in value - the trolls and pogs were placed on the curb for the City Trash truck.
This year I am again buying gift for my friends children and young cousins
However, I will be buying gifts MADE IN WEST VIRGINIA . A special ornament or small figurine, or a trip to visit the West Virginia Crafts at Oglebay or Tamerack. As responsible adults we need to educate our children about the wonderful craftsmen here in West Virginia. Plant the seed.
Happy Shopping! . NOTE: This .photo is BLENKO it was blown by Shorty Finley and was available for purchase in the Visitors Center - duirng the same time I was collecting Trolls! Blenko always has a collection of unique small items - turles, frogs, snails, figures something to excite most anyone. Plan to bring the children in your life for a visit - see Glass being made - allow your child to connect to Made In West Virginia!

Blenko Sale

Blenko Water Pitchers

At a recent talk, I encouraged the audience to send photos of their favorite BLENKO GLASS water pitcher .
We have received quite a few, we will post them as they arrive. Blenko has produced over 100 different styles of water pitchers. With the exception of Trey Gott* each Blenko designers' series included sketches of Water Pitchers. If you have or see an unusual one please send us a copy.
The photos I am now posting came from: Juanita Thompson of Ashland, KY, Tim Salmons of Orlando, Florida, Skip Copley of Charleston, South Carolina, Carletta Blevins of South Williamson, Kentucky. NOTE: Anyone having knowledge of a Trey Gott pitcher - contact us.

FROGS - One of many Blenko Collectibles

Frogs. Everyone seems to collect frogs. Especially single women. Why do we like them so much? I recently read that the Japanese believe frogs bring prosperity to the home. The 'fairy tales' have a frog turning into a PRINCE with the 'right kiss'. Are you familar with Richard Gardener's 'Real Fairy Tales' - - as a child my Mom read only Gardener's Fairy Tales to me and my cousins. . . . I'll let you search for a copy to find out what happen to the frog prince in this fractured fairy tale book.

The Frogs I like best - are Blenko Frogs. Blenko Glass has made frogs since the 1930s. In the 1960s Blenko made the large open mouth frog vase ( there are two example in the Visitor Center Garden entrance garden). In 1990 they started making the two sizes of dump mold frogs. (These are on sale now at the Visitor Center for $6 - $12 in multiple colors). In 2002 they inhitiated a new larger end of day froge bookend to use left over glass ( I don't have a photo of this but Don Lemley at Blenko is suppose to find one and then I'll post it) . If you have photos of Blenko Frogs or other special frogs we can share them in a future post.
hjh

Collectible Blenko - Hank Adams FACES

These faces were all designed by Hank Adams. Faces like most other Blenko items cost a bit more if they are Ruby. Ruby was not a line item color for the Face Vases. The 'devil face' not a Blenko line item - is a signed/ limited number (50). The Blenko Museum sold the 'devil face' as part of a fund raiser. For a donation of about $500 one received the Hank Adams 'devil face.' A link to the Blenko Museum and other information about Hank Adams may be found at www.blenkoproject.org or the Blenko Glass Company web site. HJH

Collectible Blenko – EBONY

Ebony (Black Glass) was produced by Blenko for a short time. Ebony was discontinued about eighteen months ago. Blenko shipping reports, ‘ the last ebony was sold in 2004.’

Miss B and I admit black and red are our favorite colors in everything – clothing, glass, automobiles, home décor. Needless to say our little place contains a small collection of
Blenko – Ebony (see photo).

Because Ebony is a discontinued color and production of ebony was limited, Ebony is not always easy to find - - we checked today and not one Ebony Blenko item was available on E Bay.

NOTE: Occasionally discontinued colors/ items show up for sale at the Blenko Visitors Center in Milton. Blenko Staff
During cleaning find one or two older items and then offer these for sale at the VC - - they aren’t labeled - one simply must
Look at all shelves and under the shelves. Also I recommend asking Angie and Diane what ‘unusual items’ if any might be available.

BLENKO - the people DON LEMLEY

Don Lemley - Artist - Teacher - Loyal Employee - Supervisor- Mentor.

Don Lemley has spent most of his adult life working with and around Glass. Mr. Lemley currently supervises the Antique Glass division at Blenko. Antique is most every thing but 'tablewares' . . Blenko Glass developed the reputation of being the best producer of 'antique glass' in the 40s. Very little has changed. Blenko still makes glass the old fashion way. High quality - small batches - with skilled workers at every step of the process.

Don Lemley is described by his customers as " knowledgeable, approachable, a skilled artist, ' a go to kind of guy', one customer said " Mr. Lemley is never too busy to help with whatever my problems are. He knows the market, the product, and he is himself an artist." Don Lemley is a valued employee of Blenko Glass. As a college student involved with the Blenko Project we frequently phoned or emailed Mr. Lemley for pieces of information about Blenko products and people. We experienced first hand his 'kindness, his loyalty to Blenko, his knowledge and willingness to share the knowledge and love of glass.

We will continue each month to focus on Blenko employees - the following is a summary of Don Lemley.

1. Supervisor Antique division.

2. He has worked in the Shops (production)
Batching supervisor
Utility prep personnel supervisor (night watchmen)
Batchmaster (Batchmixing supervisor)
Antique dept. Warehouseman

3.He likes meeting people from all around the world and seeing their art and ideas.

4. He collects older pieces of cobalt. ( We will ask him for photos of some special pieces- and post later)

5.His grandfather worked for Blenko for 47 years, his father was here when he first returned form the army and many family and friends have been employed at Blenko.

6. When ask 'what other thoughts do you have about Blenko'. Mr. Lemley responded:The only other thoughts I have about Blenko are:
"I would like people to stop and realize what a treasure Blenko glass is being the last production handmade glass factory. It is a link to the past when workers had a skilled craft and were proud of their work which actually was and still is a true work of art. "


Photo: Laura Moul
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Where to buy BLENKO GLASS

Our mail often contains the question - 'where to buy BLENKO'? My first choice is always the BLENKO Glass Company Visitors' Center, located in Milton, WVa.. The selection is always unique and constantly changing - if you see something you like 'buy it' it won't be there next week. Lots of people like to shop on line -for those folks, BLenko Glass Company has an online order form. If you don't find what you want at Blenko then I recommend two other places. (DK COLLECTIBLES- an online store ran by a couple from the Montgomery area - I will try to get more information and do a post about this source of BLENKO). My other recommendation is Dixie's. Dixie's in Texas has one of the largest collection of Blenko for sale. Dixie's has many one of a kind items. I ask Billy one of the owners at Dixie's for a brief description of their involvement with Blenko. I am attaching his replay and several photos.
HILLARY, HERE IS OUR STORY - Our family appreciates the opportunity toserve you, and we know you will be pleased with the uniqueness and qualityof our merchandise."Dixie's" was started in 1981 as a way to travel and supplement ourretirement. What was started in one room and the garage of our home, quicklygrew into a successful wholesale business with over 1200 accounts across thecountry, six full time sales reps, and a permanent show room at the "DallasApparel Mart. Today all of our time and energy is spent on our retail and internet business. The wholesale business was wonderful! We are very proudof having the largest selection of Blenko Glass in Texas with manyone-of-a-kind items. Blenko has been a true joy for us. Thank you so much for allowing us to serve you. If ever in theDallas-Ft.Worth area, please stop by our store and say hello.You can find us on Ebay at dixiesfashionandgifts and email atebay@dixiesonline.com. Our website is www.dixiesonline.com Thanks again from your friends in Texas

F. Duke Perry CEO & President WVU Foundation to Retire

F. Duke Perry CEO & President of the West Virginia University Foundation will retire at the end of the year.
On Thursday he will be honored at an open reception hosted by the Univesity.
Mr. Perry came to WVU in 1999, he listened to the community and facilitated the most tremendous growth in West Virginia University. Mr. Perry listened to the desire of the University and our community - he then allowed us to become a part of the growth of WVU. THANK YOU MR. Perry! The blue chalice in this photo is vintage BLENKO GLASS - it was engraved by ' A Touch of GLass ' in Hurricane,WVA. BLENKO GLASS COMPANY makes many items that are suitable for awards. Prototypes are available at the BLENKO GLASS COMPANY office.

Unique Gift Items - Now at the BLENKO VISITORS CENTER

Hank Adams - Blenko Designer 1988-1994 is known for his ability to perform magic with glass, he often uses 'found objects' (screws, bolts etc) in molds to create texture. The Hank Adams pieces we buy are the FACES. He has created many different faces for Blenko. Shown in this photo are two of six different faces currently available at the Blenko Visitors Center. In the little home Mz B (my bichon) and I share there are seven Hank Adams 'faces or heads' as they are often called. . .we started collecting in early 1990 and have a total of about fifteen. If you google Hank Adams you will find the price of his after Blenko studio pieces (often faces and heads, very elaborate pieces) to be in the 5-20K range. Hank Adams continues to grow in popularity, his Blenko designs are highly collectible and currently a real bargain in the $85-$150 range at the Visitors Center.
Many wonderful examples of Hank Adams work at Blenko are available for viewing at various Blenko sites on the web. At the www.blenkoproject.org you'll find photos of
Hank Adams after leaving Blenko - SOFA Show Chicago 2004
Hank Adams after leaving Blenko - SOFA Show Chicago 2004
Hank Adams after leaving Blenko - Seattle 2001
Please visit the Wheaton Museum where Hank is the creative director of the glass studio. The above photo provided by Dixie's Glass.

Blenko / Fenton Connection?

Yes! There is a connection...Perhaps most all glass in WVa is connected. Shorty Finley/ Dave Fetty are the Blenko/Fenton Connection. If you are familiar with www.blenkoproject.org you know the BLENKO PROJECT greatly admires Shorty Finley (retired Blenko glass blower/craftsperson). This week Shorty suggested we take a road trip during my December school break to Fenton Glass - seems he wants me to meet his friend Dave Fetty. I knew the name Dave Fetty from reading about Fenton Glass - also I know Dave Fetty designed and blew the beautiful 'COAL BOWL TROPHY ', I am very excited about the possibility of meeting Dave Fetty. As we talked Shorty told me about working with Fetty and their friendship.... the Blenko /Fenton Connection. I can hardly wait for my December break - an afternoon with two of the most talented glass workers in West Virginia... for me it will be a great Christmas gift.
We hope to have photos of the road trip and will post when we return! So you will have 6 weeks to anticipate the photos of Fetty glass and perhaps the two working together (Fetty-Finley - well a girl is allowed to dream....!
Who is Dave Fetty?
A skilled glassworker, Dave Fetty retired in 1999 after more than 40 years in the glass industry. Dave came to Fenton in 1964 after learning the trade in Milton, WV, at the Blenko Glass Company, where he began as a carrying-in boy when he was 19. Dave's mentor at Blenko was glassworker "Shorty" Finley, who taught Dave many of the skills needed to make glass off-hand (without moulds).
In the mid-1970s, Dave worked with glass artisan Robert Barber, helping to design and create some of Fenton's first limited edition pieces. In 1998, Dave taught a "pulled feather" technique to other glassworkers, and he supervised them as they produced this vase for the 1998 Connoisseur Collection.
Even after his "official" retirement, Dave has continued to contribute to Fenton. In addition to working closely with the glassworkers who produced a "Hanging Hearts" vase for the Connoisseur Collection, his contribution to the Collection in 2002 was this "Favrene Feathers Vase."
Dave also contributes pieces for the Collectors Room at the Fenton Collectors Convention held in August of each year.
The information about Dave Fetty was taken from Fenton Glass literature.

Blenko - what's in a name?

When ask WHY BLENKO? Richard Blenko, the CEO and 4th generation of Blenko Glass Company replys....Exquisite color, skilled craftsmen and creative designs have made Blenko famous in the ancient craft of hand blown glass. Over the year's top designers have developed contemporary new designs (often timeless designs) for our skilled craftsmen who have lerned the difficult techniques of glass blowing through years of practice.
The uniqueness of hand blown glass cannot be compared to that formed glass - a process which produces items all exactly alike. Because Blenko glass is made in small batches and the process is perfroemd by hand, it is common to observe small air bubbles, lines, indvidual marks left by the craftsmen's tools. These are not glaws - but rather the distinctive nature of the hand made process - which identify and make each piece of glass unique.
In a world of increasing automation and standardization, Blenko prides itself on paying particular attention to the forms and designs, BLenko continues to stay true to the traditon of hand blown glass.
What's in a name........when the name is BLENKO . . . history, tradition, quality and pride are in the name!
Blenko Glass Company is located in Milton, West Virginia. The Visitors Center Outlet Shop is open from 9 to 5 most days.