Greentown Glass From A Glass Lover’s Perspective

The husband was born in a very small town in Indiana. Last weekend, we drove through the town to show the kids his old house and his father’s old garage.

Years ago, back in the 1900’s this little town had a glass factory that made beautiful molded glass for sale. It burned down after only nine years in operation and the factory was never rebuilt.

This is a typical piece of Greentown glass. The opaque caramel color was very popular and though there are many pieces left, most are collectible items now.

Years ago, right after we were married, the husband and I purchased a compote just like this. We didn’t pay that price for it though. I wanted a piece of history and it was nice that history was made in the town where the husband has roots.

Here is more typical Greentown glass. I love the emerald green color.

This is a beautiful piece. Look at the intricate pattern and the opalescent shimmer. It’s really delicate. Off to a high shelf you go!

I bought this little cutie for my sister-in-law who was our host last weekend. It’s Hobbs glass and I thought the bubbles were fun.

This is what I had my eye on. The dolphin style was a popular Greentown glass pattern. For some reason it really spoke to me.

The pattern was made in many other types of glass and color. I wanted them all. I was told that these were used to serve condiments like mustard. I would need one for ketchup and salsa – the other ketchup.

And fish sauce.

The proprietor of the antique store was so nice and so patient. I insisted on seeing every single dolphin in the store.

And he obliged. There was a big discrepancy in the price of each one, depending on the condition.

The detail was amazing and though they came from molds, each was a little different from the other.

One of the above lids is a reproduction. I got to the point where I could tell which was genuine and which one was not. Not that it mattered to me.

I ended up purchasing the lowest price dolphin – and I talked him down $10 on top of it. He said I drove a hard bargain. I was rather proud of that comment actually. My dolphin has issues but I love it all the same, chips and cracks and all.

One more…I think this bowl was one of the priciest pieces in the store. It was really beautiful. I can see it filled with popcorn but I wouldn’t have the heart to do that. It too belongs on a high shelf.

This museum is an homage to the town’s heritage. It wasn’t open when we were there but it was for the better. I would have wanted to buy everything in the gift shop I’m sure.

So now I have two pieces of Greentown glass. I’m well on my way to a collection. A monster is born…