Posted 13 years ago
Alisonf
(1 item)
These glasses are from a diner in Bainbridge Indiana that belonged to my father's family around the turn of the century. I wish I had certain dates, but unfortunately I don't thus far. Dad loved these so I'm very attached. I can't believe they've survived.
The logo and syrup line are etched into the glasses, they hold 8oz. to the brim and are about 4" tall. They're also extremely thin and fragile but even so, in perfect condition. Not a nick or scratch on them.
I am having a rough time getting any other info on them, I've found info on the flared glasses but nothing like these. I'd love to know the right time frame, if they had holders and an idea of value if anyone here knows.
Wow! No I don't but I wish I did now...
Thanks so much for the info. They're a family thing so they're here to stay but it's nice to know.
These straight sided glasses date from around 1900 and were the first marked fountain glass to contain coca-cola. I have three different variations. These were the glasses that fit in the silver glass holders, although you always see people putting the flare glasses in the holders which is incorrect. Also, the lines aren't etched, they are actually applied by a process that in effect "stamps" a mixture white paint and varnish onto the glass. Then the glass is reheated to harden the graphics. That is why original flare glasses and strait sided glasses look so crude when compared to modern silk screening. They also have a straight lip which is very easily chipped, unlike the newer modified flare glasses of the 20's that had a rolled lip to avoid chipping. They cost too much extra, especially with the glass holder that not many were produced during that time frame, and therfore they are considered fairly rare items. Let me know if you ever decide to part with them. They are a nice item. Store or display them carefully.
Thanks for the additional info! Dad had found out a little years ago but these don't show up often that we've found. But then again, we aren't coke collectors so I admit to limited knowledge. When I told mom the book value she gasped, and then said perhaps we should consider selling....she's afraid they'll get broken. We've been afraid to touch them for the 40 odd years we've had them.
I do collect depression era / elegant glass so your description of the etching technique is very interesting. Do you happen to know who made these? There are no maker's marks. And yes, the rims are very fragile - as these are from a restaurant patronized by farmers, we're amazed any survived. I have one of the cane chairs from the restaurant as well. I'd love to find a business directory for Bainbridge, IN from that time period as well.
Interesting about the holders too. I've seen ads showing the flared glasses in the holders but not these. But as they're so delicate and have survived, I wondered about a holder.
Thanks again :)
I grew up in Rockville, I guess that is only about 30 miles west Bainbridge on highway 36, if I remember correctly! As a matter of fact I just wrote a book for Arcadia Publications about early Rockville. Those small towns were amazing in their heyday! My mom passed away a few years ago and left me with a lot of depression glass, that I just have stored away. Like your glasses, I am not sure what to do with it either. Its been a pleasure talking with you.
Paden City Glass did a lot of soda fountain glass at the turn of the century. The company was formed in 1916 so maybe not. There is a soda fountain glass book/catalog around. I would look there first.
If I were to contact you earlycoke, how would I do so? My email is elegantlydepressed@yahoo.com. Nothing to do with my state of mind, lol,
it's my glassie account.