Did you know that there used to be several glass factories in Hancock County? We actually had 4 plants in Greenfield and more in Shirley. They were in business during what was called the Gas Boom which was a period at the end of the 19th century and early 20th when natural gas was found in central Indiana. Unfortunately, the users at the time believed that the supply was infinite and it was not. They actually wasted a significant amount. By the early 1900's, the gas pressure had reduced to the extent that it could no longer power plants like the glass factories, so they all went out of business.
The Indiana Glass Trail is an attraction that has already been developed in Madison, Howard, and Grant counties where some of the glass plants are still in operation. This year, that initiative is going to expand to other counties in central Indiana, and it might include Hancock County.
If you have any photographs or other artifacts about any of our glass factories, please contact Jean Wilfong Howell at jean@visithancockcounty.com. Also, if have have an interest in this history, we are seeking individuals who will help spearhead this effort.
Peace
Jean
