The History Of Candlewick Glassware

An often sought after line of glassware, Candlewick glassware is identified by its small, glass beads interwoven into the pattern. Elegant and beautiful, Candlewick has become family heirlooms that are handed down from generation to generation.
Candlewick glassware had its humble beginnings in Ohio in the mid-30s. The Imperial Glass Company opened its doors in 1904 in Bellaire, Ohio, under the direction of Edward Muhleman, a gentleman who had much experience in the glass industry. With Muhleman’s guidance, The Imperial Glass Company became one of the most preeminent glass manufacturers in the country. And while their glass was high quality it was also extremely affordable for the average family; this rare combination made Imperial glass soar in popularity.
In the early 1930s Candlewick glassware was developed by Imperial’s Chicago sales representative, Earl Newton. Newton made adaptations to the French Cannonball line of glassware after having seen it on a trip to New York and being taken with its distinctiveness and elegance. Newton used this design as starting ground to develop what he believed would be a unique and timeless glassware line. His resulting design reminded Newton of candlewicking – a style of needlework popular in Colonial times and thus the name was born.
The Imperial Glass Company jumped onboard and released its Candlewick line in the summer of 1936. Candlewick glassware proved itself to be one of Imperial’s best sellers, as customers lined up for these elegant pieces.
Today, collectors of Candlewick glassware continue to haunt antique stores for pieces to add to their collection. With the advent of the Internet, a whole new world has opened for collectors as they buy and sells their wares online. Internet resources have made the hunt for special pieces a much more convenient and affordable journey.
There is also an enormous amount of information online about the beginnings of Candlewick glassware and the variety of lines it produced. From there, you can research reputable glass dealers who many have pieces for sale. Candlewick glassware – like all glassware – can be a beautiful legacy to pass along.