History of Depression Glass

The History of Depression Glass begins around the late 1920s and continues through the 1940s. The term “Depression Glass” is used to describe typically very colorful glassware that was produced during this period.

When the Great Depression hit, the lack of money created an ideal atmosphere for a clever, inexpensive product. So when the cheap process for Depression glass was discovered, it quickly gained popularity on the American table. In fact, Depression Glass can be thanked for some glass companies being able to weather the Depression.

Avocado / Sweet Pear

The First Depression Glass Pattern

The pattern called Avocado (also known as Sweet Pear) was the first Depression Glass Pattern. It was made by Indiana Glass Company from 1923 to 1933

Well Known Depression Glass Makers
Jeannette Glass Company
Hazel Atlas Glass Company
Federal Glass Company
Indiana Glass Company
US Glass Company
Anchor Hocking Glassware

Color Me Wistful:

Initially Depression glass was created in hues of pink, blue, green and yellow. Of course clever manufacturers didn’t use those boring terms to describe the glassware. For example, a pink plate, bowl, or tumbler was “Flamingo” patterned.

Give away Glass:

Depression glass could be produced very inexpensively. This meant that a variety of companies jumped on the Depression Glass bandwagon and had a variety of “give aways” made for special promotions. For example, Quaker Oats ordered prizes made from Depression Glass and gas stations offered pieces to lure in new customers.

The remaining promotional Depression Glass today is likely to be flawed and of a relatively poor quality. Also because so many of these items were produced they’re not as likely to retain and increase in value for a collector.

Having said that the history of Depression Glass makes it a very fun hobby. You can find mis-balanced pieces and color variations in whole sets that give this glass a unique character all its own. It’s the fact that Depression Glass is NOT uniform that endeared it to many people’s hearts. And there are certainly tons of wonderful patterns from which to choose including Banded Ring, Fine Rib, Miss America, Pinwheel, Adam, Windsor, and Spiral.

Buyer Beware

Its important to remember that Depression Glass continues in production today, and of course this isn’t “authentic” but reproductions. Thus when you’re shopping make sure you look for straw marks and ripples that come from the older molds. Avoid pieces with cracks or chips, however, as these significantly deter the on-going value of your collectible’s investment.

Related Pages:
What is Depression Glass?

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