America 250- History Lives Here | February 2026
In 2026, we will celebrate the 250th anniversary of the United States by exploring the many ways Ohio and Seneca County have contributed to U.S. History. Each month, a new theme will highlight Ohio’s unique and lasting contributions. Learn more about the 2026 Celebration Themes here.
Ohio has long been a center of manufacturing and industry in America. This rich industrial heritage brought families, jobs, and economic prosperity to communities across the state. From the late 1800s through the early 1900s, Fostoria and Tiffin emerged as major centers for glassmaking in the Northwestern region. Drawn by abundant natural gas and access to key railroads, skilled craftsmen and investors built thriving glass factories that produced some of the nation’s most beautiful and innovative glass. Between 1887 and 1920, Fostoria was home to 13 glass companies, while Tiffin Glass became recognized in the industry for its fine stemware and decorative pieces. These industries fueled local economies, created thousands of jobs, and shaped the cultural identity of the region.
Glass Today
Today, Seneca County’s proud glassmaking heritage lives on through organizations and businesses committed to preserving, sharing, and advancing the art of glass. Museums, galleries, and working studios continue the traditions of craftsmanship and creativity that defined the area for years, offering visitors a unique opportunity to explore the past, present, and future of glass in Northwestern Ohio.
Tiffin Glass Museum & Shop
The Tiffin Glass Museum preserves the glass legacy, displaying more than 1,000 unique pieces and honoring the men and women of the Tiffin “Glass House”. The glass industry brought economic growth, middle-class jobs, and artistic innovation to the region, permanently shaping our area’s identity. Ohio’s role in the glass revolution left a lasting mark, one still seen today throughout the area of Northwestern Ohio and Seneca County. The Tiffin Glass Museum invites visitors to come discover and celebrate the history that has changed our area and its culture.
Glass Heritage Gallery
Between 1887 and 1920, Fostoria was home to 13 different glass companies, an important glass-producing community in our area. With more than 7 plants operating at one time, the industry flourished with abundant natural gas and access to five major railroad lines. These advantages led to unmatched success and attracted investors and skilled glassworkers from all over the country. Today, the Glass Heritage Gallery preserves and celebrates this remarkable legacy. The gallery specializes in 10 of the glass companies in Fostoria, focusing on the vibrant decorative and artistic glass produced.
Hawke’s Crystal
Hawke’s Crystal is proudly reviving the historic T.G. Hawkes trademark, blending traditional craftsmanship with modern design. Continuing to create traditional and contemporary pieces in a new trademark line, the artist crafts the glass, a practice that has remained consistent for over 100 years.
Led by Master Brilliant Cutter and designer Aiden J. Scully, one of only a few master cutters in the United States, Hawkes Crystal is based in Tiffin, Ohio, continuing the area’s rich glassmaking history. With over thirty years of experience and work featured in major museums and galleries, Scully’s vision honors the past while shaping the future of fine American crystal.
The story of glass in Seneca County is one of innovation, craftsmanship, and community pride. From the booming factories of the late 19th century to the vibrant studios of artistic glass today, glass has shaped the area’s identity and economy for generations. By preserving this history, Seneca County ensures that its rich glassmaking legacy will continue to inspire and achieve new heights in years to come. Our county’s legacy in the glass industry represents the innovation and industry that has and currently thrives in our area, a proud dedication to our county’s role in the greater story of Ohio and our nation’s history.
