Fenton Glass
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I completely forgot to write about one of the things I did while I was up in West Virginia. I guess my old blog host pulling my blog access while I was my grandmother’s funeral threw me for a loop. What can I say?
Anyway, those of you who are art glass lovers are probably familiar with the Fenton Glass Company. They are located in Williamstown, WV so they were a regular stop when I visited family in Parkersburg. I’ve been through their factory tour several times and I’ve selectively purchased a few nice pieces over the years. As far as style goes, I am more a fan of the Blenco Glass Company. But, Fenton is classic and high quality and quite simply a part of the region from which my family hails.
Recently Fenton announced they would cease operations in the next few moths. The decision comes on the heels of financial restructuring for the company. They have been in operation since 1905, so it seems nearly unreal to me that they would one day not exist.
So, in light of this, my sister and I decided to go up to the factory and buy something for the kids to have as keepsakes. Unexpectedly, we found ourselves in the store at the same time that Mike Fenton was signing pieces! Talk about good luck. I picked up a lovely little pink butterfly for Gigi and a modern-looking vase for myself. It was not until we got to the front of the line that I realized they were not signing seconds. Since the store sells mostly seconds, both items I had picked up were second quality. I kept the butterfly, because Gigi had her heart set on it, but I quickly put back my own vase and instead picked up a more traditional purple basket with daffodil designs. Mike actually offered to sign both pieces, but I gave into the Angel on my shoulder and just had him sign the first quality piece.
My violet daffodil basket
Gigi’s butterfly (but her’s is pink)
I am thrilled we were in town to take advantage of such an opportunity. I wish the entire Fenton family nothing but the best and also that their reputation will live on indefinitely.
They’re both beautiful pieces.