Westmoreland Glass: American Pressed Glass & Milk Glass
Westmoreland Glass Company, founded in 1889 in Grapeville, Pennsylvania, operated until 1985, producing a diverse range of pressed and blown glass including their signature milk glass, colored glass, and decorative tableware. The company became synonymous with quality milk glass, producing intricate patterns that reproduced earlier Victorian designs while creating distinctive original patterns. Westmoreland's "Paneled Grape," "Old Quilt," "Beaded Grape," and other patterns became staples of mid-century American table settings and remain actively collected today.
Identification & Marks
Westmoreland used several marks over its history. The most recognized is the intertwined "WG" mark used from the 1940s onward. Earlier pieces may be unmarked or bear paper labels. After the factory closed in 1985, some molds were acquired by other companies, creating attribution challenges for unmarked pieces. The Westmoreland glass body is typically dense and well-made, with crisp mold detail. Milk glass should show a consistent, opaque white color. Colored glass includes various shades exclusive to Westmoreland that help with attribution.
Major Patterns & Lines
- Paneled Grape: The most popular and extensively produced pattern, featuring grape clusters in relief panels
- Old Quilt: Diamond-quilted pattern available in milk glass and colors
- Beaded Grape: Grape motif with beaded border
- English Hobnail: Classic hobnail pattern produced in multiple colors
- Della Robbia: Fruit-decorated pattern on colored glass
- Lotus: Art Deco-influenced pattern
- Brandywine Blue: Distinctive blue milk glass
- Roses & Bows: Delicate floral pattern on milk glass
- Animal Covered Dishes: Hen, rooster, cat, duck, and other figural covered dishes on nests or baskets
Auction Price Ranges
| Item | Price Range |
|---|---|
| Common Paneled Grape pieces | $10 - $30 |
| Paneled Grape serving pieces | $20 - $75 |
| Old Quilt pieces | $10 - $40 |
| English Hobnail (colored) | $10 - $50 |
| Animal covered dishes (common) | $20 - $60 |
| Animal covered dishes (rare) | $75 - $300 |
| Colored glass pieces (purple slag) | $20 - $80 |
| Brandywine Blue pieces | $15 - $50 |
| Rare patterns or forms | $50 - $200 |
| Complete table sets | $100 - $500 |
Condition Factors
Milk glass should be examined for chips, which show as glaring defects against the white surface. Mold lines should be clean and well-finished. Fire-polished rims indicate quality production. Yellowing or discoloration of milk glass from UV exposure or age reduces appeal. Colored glass should show consistent, even color. Applied hand-painted decoration (commonly found on milk glass pieces) should be intact without wear. Animal covered dish lids must match their bases; mismatched components are common and significantly reduce value. Check for roughness or grinding marks that indicate chip removal.
Collecting Tips
Westmoreland milk glass offers affordable, attractive collecting with a dedicated community of enthusiasts. The Paneled Grape pattern was produced in the widest range of forms (over 150 shapes), making complete collections impressive but challenging. Animal covered dishes are the most actively collected Westmoreland specialty, with rare animals and unusual colors commanding strong premiums. Purple slag (marble) glass is another Westmoreland specialty with distinctive appeal. After the factory closed, Summit Art Glass and others acquired some molds; learn to distinguish original Westmoreland production from later re-issues. The WG mark was not used on all pieces, so unmarked examples require pattern identification. Complete place settings and serving sets offer the best display impact. Store milk glass away from direct sunlight to prevent yellowing.