Libbey Glass Past, Present, And Future    by Ben Pate

Libby glass is a leading manufacturer of glass items on the international scene. It began in northeastern United States and grew through ceaseless emphasis on innovation, customer service, quality, and expanding markets. Beginning with cut glass handmade by artisans, it now mass produces glassware of all types for use in private homes and the hospitality industry.

In 1878 William L. Libbey acquired a company that had been producing glassware in Cambridge, Massachusetts, since 1818. During the Brilliant Period, the heyday of American cut glass, the company gained in prestige with its hand cut and polished items. Artisans used iron or steel wheels to cut patterns in hand-blown blanks. The development of molded blanks expanded the available supply and the market for products such as water pitchers.

American products were competing with European imports, but with ingenuity and the high-quality sand of the New World, it gradually made a name for itself. In 1888 the Libbey family moved its glass works to Toledo, Ohio, to be close to the best sand and ample reserves of natural gas, which had replaced coal as the fuel to fire the furnaces.

The American glass began to win awards in international competition, and in 1893 two Libbey patterns, Columbia and Isabella, claimed the top honors at the world Exposition in Chicago. That year saw this acclaimed line at the White House, the court of King Edward VII, the mansions of industrial tycoons, and the homes of many international leaders.

The company abandoned its exquisite hand cutting practices in the early 1900s and all handmade products after World War II, when it began to focus on production for a large market. It is now the second largest producer of tableware, cookware, and decorative items for homes and restaurants. It can be bought in many retail outlets, both mass marketers and specialty shops, as well as restaurant supply houses.

The history of the business side of this giant company is almost as interesting as the products it makes, as it has been acquired once and has assimilated many other companies, as well as their markets. It has maintained its prominence by superior innovation and technology, high quality, and excellent customer service. You can check online to find a lot of information on the company, the products it makes, and the career opportunities it offers.

Collectors value early examples of craftsmanship highly, and many outstanding pieces are in museums and private exhibits. Antique dealers offer hand-made items - some too early to be signed, since the American origin was considered at first to be a handicap - and later, vintage styles can be found in flea markets, antique centers, and auction sites online. For an education and an overview, check online. Many collector clubs have informational websites and photo galleries, and there are many commercial sites that have wonderful photos as well.