Gillinder's Glass has a history
PORT JERVIS, N.Y. Mayor Russell Potter has named Gillinder Glass as the city's "Business of the Week."
Next year, Gillinder Glass will be celebrating its 100th year in Port Jervis. William T. Gillinder, who was born and raised in England, founded Gillinder Glass in 1861, 151 years ago, in Philadelphia.
During the countrys centennial celebration in 1876, Gillinder built an operational glass plant on the grounds of the centennial which was an instant success that attracted many visitors.
In 1912, three Gillinder brothers, grandsons of William, purchased a glass plant in Port Jervis formerly known as Orange County Flint Glass Works. The plant opened as Gillinder Brothers in January of 1913.
Today, Gillinder Glass is owned and operated by sixth generation Charles Gillinder. Using state of the art equipment, Gillinder Glass is primarily an industrial and commercial specialty glass manufacturer. About 50% of the airport runway lights used in the US, as well as landscape lighting and glass for other lighting applications are manufactured at Gillinder Glass, whose specialty is technical glass and technical colors.
The historic factory is opened for tours and demonstrations of pressed glass during regular weekday production and glass blowing with guest glass artists during special weekend events. Gillinder Glass is located at 39 Erie Street in Port Jervis' West End.
The gift shop is open seven days a week. Gillinder Glass has a gift shop featuring many items made in Port Jervis, as well as by local artists. Factory tours are at 10:15 a.m., 12:30 and 1:30 p.m., Monday-Friday.
This year, upcoming glass blowing demonstrations featuring guest glass artists are on the Saturdays including: February 11, March 10, and April 21. They resume on Oct. 20, with several demonstration through Dec. 8.
Gillinder Glass is open; Monday through Friday: 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Saturday 9:30 to 4 p.m., Sunday: Noon to 4 p.m. Find Gillinder glass on Facebook to learn about new products and discounts.
Potter commented on the new Business of the Week program. "I am hopeful that this new concept of advertising for Port Jervis will have a positive effect on our merchants. It is encouraging to the entire community when people decide to shop locally and help support their neighbors.
For more information about Gillinder Glass, stop by the store or call 845-856- 5375.