Warkentine Showcases Rare Glass Pieces

Delicate glassware shimmered under the lights at the National Depression Glass Association (NDGA) Museum as collector and expert Denis Warkentine shared stories behind some of his most treasured pieces.

Warkentine recently returned to the museum to present a symposium on New Martinsville Glass, offering both history and hands-on insight into one of America’s early glassmaking centers.

Located along the Ohio River Valley in West Virginia, New Martinsville became a hub for glass production in the early 1900s, when several entrepreneurs opened factories producing Early American Patterned Glass (EAPG).

“This type of pressed glass was less expensive to make,” Warkentine explained. “And more people could afford it.”

The company’s early years were not without challenges. After the first factory was destroyed by fire, efforts were made to save as many molds as possible, though the building was ultimately lost.

“In the fall of 1907, they built a new glass factory,” said Warkentine. “It was twice the size of the original, and they continued to make glassware in that building through 1970.”

The New Martinsville Glass Company became known for its wide range of patterns and colors, including amber, ruby, evergreen, amethyst, cobalt blue, ritz blue, rose, jade, pale blue, light green, pink, black and yellow. Many pieces also featured ruby flash or gold decoration.

“They produced about fifteen different patterns of powder jars for ladies that used powder,” Warkentine said, as he displayed a variety of glass boxes. “Now most people use them for jewelry or Q-tips.”

The interactive presentation showcased a number of rare pieces from Warkentine’s personal collection and included a quiz that kept guests engaged throughout the program. He also gave away several pieces at the conclusion of his talk.

The event marked the first of several spring gatherings at the NDGA Museum. The museum will host its annual Tea Party at Memorial Auditorium on Saturday, April 18, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Guests can enjoy live music and homemade cookies while sampling a variety of teas. Admission is $10 per person and includes a vintage teacup and saucer to take home.