West Virginia’s history is deeply intertwined with glassmaking. For generations, the Mountain State was a national leader in glass production, with hundreds of factories employing skilled artisans who transformed molten glass into everything from elegant tableware to decorative art pieces. While many of those factories have disappeared, a new generation of makers is ensuring that the state’s glassmaking legacy continues.
One of those businesses is Marrowbone Glassworks, a Huntington-based studio whose handcrafted pieces can now be found at the Wheeling Artisan Shop.
Founded by former employees of West Virginia’s last handblown glass tableware factory, Marrowbone Glassworks was born from a desire to preserve and revitalize Appalachian glassmaking traditions. Rather than viewing the decline of the region’s glass industry as the end of an era, the team behind Marrowbone sees an opportunity to write a new chapter.
“We reject the idea that the glory days of West Virginian handmade glass are in the past,” the company states.
Today, Marrowbone Glassworks operates as Huntington’s first public-facing glassblowing studio, where visitors can witness artisans at work, learn about the region’s rich glassmaking history, and experience the magic of hot glass firsthand.
Continuing a 150-Year Tradition
The studio creates contemporary glassware, home décor, and functional art in small batches, all crafted by Appalachian artisans. Their work blends traditional glassblowing techniques with modern design, resulting in pieces that feel both timeless and fresh.
Each item reflects a commitment to American craftsmanship and carries forward a tradition that has shaped communities throughout West Virginia for more than a century.
From colorful drinking glasses to unique gifts and statement pieces, Marrowbone’s creations celebrate the beauty and versatility of handmade glass.
Beyond their retail collections, the studio also offers custom glassware for designers, businesses, organizations, and special events. Their work has helped transform everything from weddings and celebrations to memorial tributes into meaningful works of art.
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Honoring West Virginia’s Glassmaking Heritage
Marrowbone Glassworks is located in Huntington’s Central City neighborhood, just steps away from the former site of the Rainbow Glass and Erickson Glass factory, which operated until a fire destroyed the facility in the 1980s.
That proximity is no accident.
The studio is dedicated not only to creating new glass art but also to uncovering, preserving, and sharing the stories of West Virginia’s glassmaking past. In a state that once boasted more than 400 glass factories, Marrowbone sees itself as both a continuation of that tradition and a bridge to its future.
By opening its doors to the public and offering hands-on glassblowing experiences, Marrowbone invites visitors to connect with the craft and learn more about the craftsmanship that goes into each piece.
Find Marrowbone Glassworks at the Wheeling Artisan Shop
Those interested in bringing home a piece of West Virginia’s glassmaking legacy can find select Marrowbone Glassworks creations at the Wheeling Artisan Shop, located inside the Wheeling Artisan Center at 1400 Main Street in Downtown Wheeling.
For more nearly three decades, the Wheeling Artisan Shop has championed local artists, makers, and food producers by connecting their work with residents and visitors alike. The shop features handcrafted items, artwork, specialty foods, and gifts from more than 100 West Virginia and Appalachian creators, offering visitors an opportunity to directly support local artists and small businesses.
From hand-blown glass and pottery to jewelry, apparel, candles, soaps, and gourmet food products, every item reflects the creativity and craftsmanship that make Appalachia unique. The shop’s curators carefully select merchandise that highlights both traditional techniques and contemporary artistic expression, ensuring that each visit offers something new to discover.
The Wheeling Artisan Shop is open Monday from 12-5pm and Tuesday through Friday from 12-6pm. Whether you’re searching for a thoughtful gift, a keepsake from Appalachia, or a way to support local makers, Marrowbone Glassworks and the many other artisans featured in the shop offer something special for every occasion.
By combining artistry, innovation, and a deep respect for history, Marrowbone Glassworks demonstrates that West Virginia’s glassmaking story is far from over.
