DEARBORN, Michigan – One lump or two? It is not a question we hear asked very often, particularly as we rush through a fast food drive-thru window to grab a coffee or drink hot beverages from a disposable insulated cup. But before the fast pace of life consumed society, the kitchen cabinets in most American homes were stocked with glassware for serving coffee, tea and desserts…well, for making and serving most any meal.
An amazing glimpse into America’s glass-past will soon be on display at the Ford Community and Performing Arts Center in Dearborn, Saturday & Sunday, Nov. 5 & 6, as glass dealers from across the country fill the dome room with an amazing array of U.S. made glassware produced from the 1900s through the early 1970s.
And while attendees can satisfy their sweet tooth by finding cake plates, bon bon dishes and covered candy bowls, there is so much more to be found at this 39th annual event which is hosted by the Michigan Depression Glass Society.
As one of the nation’s largest “all American-made” glass shows, the event annually attracts more than 1,000 show-goers to Dearborn, who are anxious to stand in awe of seeing so much sparkling glass all in one place, with much of it manufactured during the Depression years.
“The depression years were a gloomy time in history, and many homemakers were cheered by the bright, lovely colors of glassware being produced at that time,” explains MDGS president Barbara Cruz. “Much of the glassware was given out free as a promotion or as an incentive for purchasing certain products like flour or laundry soap. Some glassware was given out to movie-goers at theatres or for being a loyal customer at select businesses.
The show includes elegant hand-made glass, ‘retro’ kitchenware, colorful mass-produced ‘depression-era’ glass, as well as an assortment of art glass and other interesting glass pieces.
“Whether it’s a vase, mixing bowl, dinner plate, stemware, candlesticks, cookware or serving pieces, there is something here of interest to everyone. Attendees are always amazed at what they can find, for display or functional use,” Cruz comments. “And yes, there are some really sweet deals to be found here, too!”
The natural lighting at the Ford Community and Performing Arts Center makes this a particularly stunning venue for this show, which is open Saturday 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. and Sunday 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. with anxious attendees lined-up each morning. A $5 donation is accepted at the door and strollers are not permitted for safety reasons. Parking is free; glass repair is available on-site. Other highlights include an hourly give-away, glass display and books. The event is located at 15801 Michigan Ave. (US 12) at Greenfield Rd., Dearborn, 48126. Additional information and directions are available at www.michigandepressionglass.com.