Fostoria Glass USA 1887 – 1986
Fostoria Glass is one of America’s oldest and most enduring glass makers. Established in West Virginia, USA in 1887, Fostoria weathered wars, the Great Depression, the challenges of automation, and the changing tastes of the modern consumer for 99 years. The competition created by globalism, as with most great American glass companies, finally closed the Fostoria’s glass plant in 1986.
At its apex in the 1950’s Fostoria employed over 900 workers. During this time Fostoria produced elegant table glassware, stemware sets and vases in a huge variety of patterns and colors. America was prosperous in the 1950’s and many an elegant table in average homes boasted Fostoria glassware.
Fostoria’s most enduring pattern was called ‘American’ and was popular for 70 years. As a result there were hundreds of forms made in American pattern and is a favorite among collectors for dressing holiday tables today. Many more Fostoria patterns made it into the glass halls of fame. Some styles were produced for only a few years and are rare to find today.