Up: Glassmaking
Reminiscences
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imperfect instruments, have so far been unveiled, to what extent may
he not then be able to penetrate the pure ether, and reveal planets
and heavenly bodies as yet unknown?
We close our reminiscences of Glass and its
manufacture, by presenting to our readers a view of an American model
glass factory of the present day.¹ By comparing this view with the
sketches heretofore given of the early Venetian and French factories,
they will perceive the very great improvement which is apparent over
the ancient plans, an improvement conducing alike to the health and
comfort of the workmen. Thirty years have passed in its development,
during which many difficulties arose from the conflicting opinions
of the English and German glass-makers; and, in fact, it was not until
the proprietors boldly separated themselves from the current and
influence of old, and almost fixed opinions, that any decided progress
was shown in the development of manufacturing efficiency, or any plan
contributing to the health and comfort of the workmen employed.
It is to be borne in mind that the first glass
works in this country were established by the Germans, who used no other
fuel than wood,
¹ See drawing No. 4, at end of book.
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