Last updated: March 10, 2021
Thing to Do
Glasshouse Ruins
National Park Service
At "glass point" near Jamestown, the glass furnaces were re-discovered and excavated in 1948. Here you see the original glassworks as an archaeological site.
Jamestown was established by the Virginia Company of London in May 1607. Their 1606 charter, granted by King James I, outlined the many purposes and goals of the Company. But like all good companies, its primary duty was to provide a profitable return to the investors. One of the first English attempts at industrialization and manufacturing in America was glassblowing.The Company hoped glass production might provide the profit that it was looking for. The New World abounded with raw materials -wood for fuel and ash, and sand (silica) for the glass. All that was needed were artisans and various laborers to produce the glass.
Today, in a reconstructed, interpretive facility, glassblowing is again performed at Jamestown. Modern artisans, in reproductive clothing, produce common glass objects very much as they must have done almost 400 years ago.
Jamestown was established by the Virginia Company of London in May 1607. Their 1606 charter, granted by King James I, outlined the many purposes and goals of the Company. But like all good companies, its primary duty was to provide a profitable return to the investors. One of the first English attempts at industrialization and manufacturing in America was glassblowing.The Company hoped glass production might provide the profit that it was looking for. The New World abounded with raw materials -wood for fuel and ash, and sand (silica) for the glass. All that was needed were artisans and various laborers to produce the glass.
Today, in a reconstructed, interpretive facility, glassblowing is again performed at Jamestown. Modern artisans, in reproductive clothing, produce common glass objects very much as they must have done almost 400 years ago.
Details
Duration
30-45 Minutes
Activity
Self-Guided Tours - Walking
Enter the building and view the exhibits. You can continue the interpretive trail once outside this building that will lead you back to the parking lot.
Pets Allowed
No
Access dogs are allowed.
Activity Fee
Yes
Entrance fees may apply, see Fees & Passes information.
Location
Historic Jamestowne
Once through the entry gate turn left and park. Walk down a sloped sidewalk. There are two structures. First one you see if the current glassworks and gift shop. Behind that is the glasshouse ruins.
Reservations
No
Season
Year Round
Be aware that in winter it can be windy and cold due to wind coming off the James River immediately south of this site.
Time of Day
Any Time
Accessibility Information
Access is by way of parking lot down a gradual slope that is a sidewalk and then compacted earth. Entry to this building is through doorway and out the exit.