Glasshouse

Glassblowing Demonstration

National Park Service

Come witness what was surely one of England's first industries in North America. You will be mesmerized as artisans form glass into useful household products. Many of these treasures can be purchased through our sales outlet at the Glasshouse. Visitors can see the remains of the original furnaces used by those early glassblowers and watch as modern glassblowers produce wine bottles, pitchers, candleholders and various other glass objects. Today's glass furnaces are heated by natural gas, rather than by wood as in 1608. Glassblowers, however, use tools and methods similar to those of the 17th century.

The Glasshouse and Glasshouse Gift Shop are operated by Eastern National, a not-for-profit "cooperating association" that supports the National Park Service. Visitors can watch as glass artisans make green glass wine bottles, similar to those found at Jamestown, and other items. These include vases, pitchers, candleholders, wine glasses and paper weights, just to name a few. These items are available for purchase and a portion of all sales comes back to the National Park Service. So any purchase helps support the Glassblowing demonstrations and the National Park Service at Historic Jamestowne.

Jamestown Glasshouse, 1368 Colonial Parkway, Jamestown, Virginia 23081, Phone: [phone], FAX: [phone]

Details

Duration

45-120 Minutes

Activity

Craft Demonstrations

English America's first industry was glassblowing. Here at the Glasshouse, costumed interpreters use the same techniques and tools employed by glassblowers of 1608. Demonstrations are ongoing daily during operating hours.

Age(s)

Children should be accompanied with an adult.

Pets Allowed

No

Activity Fee

Yes

Entrance fees may apply, see Fees & Passes information.

Reservations

No

Season

Year Round

Time of Day

Day

Accessibility Information

Glasshouse is accessible by way of parking lot and down a gradual slope to the demonstration area. Restrooms are located at the parking lot.