"We make glass the old-fashioned way, using many techniques and tools that are essentially unchanged from those of a century ago." - George Fenton, President

Monday, January 03, 2005

Fenton Glass Turns 100

By Amber Davison

WTAP

Parkersburg, WV



WILLIAMSTOWN - One West Virginia company is marking a centennial anniversary and promising that it will continue to employ people in the state.

Fenton Art Glass Company in Williamstown is the largest manufacturer of handmade colored glass in the United States, but the company has had its share of ups and downs.

George Fenton, president of Fenton Glass, says all 325 workers should be optimistic that things will improve in this new year.

Five hundred designs are crafted each year at Fenton Glass. If you multiply that by 100 years, you have several memorable pieces.

Made especially for the centennial anniversary is a book displaying 100 of the most memorable glass pieces. In addition to the book, it will also be releasing a new line of products for the centennial celebration. These will be featured in the company gift shop and shown on QVC.

The company has customers all around the world.