Collectible ruby glass

Anyone visiting Niagara Falls or a county fair in the 1890s was likely to bring home a piece of ruby-stained pattern glass as a souvenir. Such novelties, turned out in hundreds of pressed patterns, were decorated in red stain baked on for permanence. They once sold for a song, and now are finds you’ll treasure.

Four famous patterns are in this collection (shown): “Ruby Thumbprint,” one of the most popular, is on compote (top right), cream pitcher (bottom right) and berry bowl (below). “Prize” is on water pitcher (top left); “Crystal Wedding” on square pitcher (center); “Heart Band” on tumbler (far right).

>> Also see: Collectible syrup jugs & sugar shakers (1975)