Northwood Glass Works: Unique Colors and Designs

The Northwood Glass Works began its glass manufacturing operations in January 1888. The factory had previously housed several other glass factories that had decided to move to other locations. Some minor changes and redecorating was all the plant needed to begin production. Harry Northwood was named General Manager. Harry learned his trade by working in some of the largest and best glass factories. In 1882, Harry worked in the etching department of Hobbs, Brockunier and Company and his work won three first ribbons at the State Fair. By January 1884, Harry was working at the La Belle Glass Company but in 1884, La Belle Glass Company closed due to flooding, it was still not open in April of 1885. Most likely Harry went to work at the Phoenix Glass Company where the company excelled to making colored pitchers, table sets, berry sets and a wide array of glassware. By January, 1886, Harry became General Manager for La Belle Glass. A fire on September 27, 1887 destroyed the La Belle Glass Company but Harry Northwood had mastered the glass manufacturing trade and he decided to open his own glass factory, the Northwood Glass Works.

During Northwood’s first year of production the company received outstanding reviews. The “Pottery and Glassware Reporter” wrote “The Northwood Glass Company’s success is something to be wondered at. Harry Northwood seems to have reached his zenith in blending together colors and beautiful effect, and their trade is away beyond the capacity of the works.” (September 13, 1888) Another trade journal, “Crockery and Glass Journal” reported “Never before in the history of the Northwood Glass Company has business been as good as the past three weeks. The line of goods the Northwood is turning out is a credit to the company.” (September 13, 1888) The Northwood Company produced blown glass items in lovely patterns and it specialized in creating unique colors and hues. Milk glass, cased glass, ruby stained, yellow, many shades of blue and a variety of spatter glass containing streaks, dabs, and flecks of different colors.

Although Northwood changed the location and name of his company over the years, he continued to manufacture superior quality art glass. On February 4, 1919, at the age of 58, Harry Northwood died at his home in Wheeling, West Virginia and a brilliant glass design and manufacturing career ended. The Northwood Glass Company went into receivership on September 23, 1925. The plant and inventory were auctioned off on June 14, 1926. Today glass collectors still seek and marvel at the unique colors and designs of Harry Northwood.