Glass is beautiful to me, especially in an art form like a vase or stained glass window. William J. Benko is also inspirational to me since he took a risk, moving from Europe to the United States to begin the first US glasshouse that could supply mouth blown (Antique) sheet glass for stained glass windows. He began his company in 1893 in Kokomo, IN.
I became interested in the Blenko Glass company after watching a PBS show about it and then took a road trip to tour the production in West Virginia. You can watch the glassblowing in action and purchase vases and bowls onsite.
Lesson Idea
Two suggestions based upon my story, 1) tune into your public tv station, it's full of local travel stories that will inspire you and your family to explore, 2) take your child to a glass factory or museum
Here's 7 glass factories/museums to consider:
1. Blenko - Milton, WV (pictured above), check out website www.blenko.com for store coupon and demonstration times (usually open 9AM-4PM)
2. Boyd's Crystal Art Glass Inc. - Cambridge, Ohio (OH)
3. Corning Museum of Glass - NY (everyday, adult $15, free under 19 yrs)
4. Fenton Art Glass Co. - Williamstown, WV (select Saturdays)
5. Kokomo Opalescent Glass - Kokomo, IN (Tue. - Fri.)
6. Mosser Glass Inc. - Cambridge, Ohio (OH)
7. Glassworks - Louisville, Kentucky (KY)
If you've been to any of the glass factory tours above, please write a comment on whether you recommend it to other Moms.
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