Melksham Probus Club welcomed Mrs Pam Baldry on Tuesday 4th June, who gave an excellent after lunch talk on moulded glass.
It was a surprise to most members that before 1830, there was little moulded glass manufactured in Britain because it was so expensive to produce. Thanks to the Americans, who perfected the moulds and the skills to manufacture the glass, it was possible to make moulded glass at an affordable price. In 1845 Britain abolished the glass tax and glass became a very good alternative to porcelain and china and by 1890, minerals were being mixed with sand which produced coloured glass. Victorian glassware was renowned for its very high quality and exported all over the world.
However, during the first half of the 20th century, Britain began to suffer from cheap imports and saw the decline of moulded glass manufacturing in this country. Some of the last products made were ashtrays mainly for use by pubs and restaurants. The banning of smoking in public places was devastating and sadly large-scale production ceased. After this most interesting talk, a vote of thanks was given by Geoff Grant on behalf of the members.
Probus lunches are held on the first Tuesday of the month at the Kings Arms Hotel and new members are always welcome. Please contact the secretary Kevin Hayes on 01225 360052.