The history of Candlewick glassware

21-06-2021

An often sought after line of glassware, Candlewick glassware is identified by its small glass beads woven into the pattern. Elegant and beautiful, Candlewick has become family heirlooms passed down through the generations.

Candlewick glassware had its humble beginnings in Ohio in the mid-1930s. The Imperial Glass Company opened its doors in 1904 in Bellaire, Ohio, under the direction of Edward Muhleman, an experienced gentleman in the glass industry. With Muhleman’s guidance, The Imperial Glass Company became one of the nation’s leading glassmakers. And while their glass was high quality, it was also extremely affordable for the average family; This rare combination made imperial glass rise in popularity.

In the early 1930s, Imperial Chicago sales representative Earl Newton developed Candlewick glassware. Newton made adaptations to the French Cannonball line of glassware after seeing it on a trip to New York and being captivated by its distinction and elegance. Newton used this design as a starting point to develop what he believed would be a unique and timeless line of glassware. The resulting design reminded Newton of the candle wick, a popular sewing style in colonial times and thus the name was born.

The Imperial Glass Company jumped on board and launched its Candlewick line in the summer of 1936. Candlewick glassware proved to be one of Imperial’s best-selling products, as customers lined up for these elegant pieces.

Today, Candlewick glassware collectors continue to prowl antique stores looking for pieces to add to their collection. With the advent of the Internet, a whole new world has opened up for collectors who buy and sell their products online. Resources on the Internet have made finding specialty parts a much more convenient and affordable trip.

There is also a tremendous amount of information online about the beginnings of Candlewick glassware and the variety of lines it produced. From there, you can search for reputable glass dealers many have pieces for sale. Candlewick glassware, like all glassware, can be a beautiful legacy to pass on.

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