A Glass From The Past: Glenny Glass Co. turns 175

A confetti cannon popped loudly as it shot rainbow-colored paper into the air at the Glenny Glass Company’s 175th anniversary celebration earlier this month.

Brothers Joseph Smith and Braxton Smith II conducted a ceremonial ribbon cutting, along with their father and president of Glenny Glass, Rufus Smith. 

Among the state representatives, company employees and interested members of the public sat Glenn and Gigi, two pig statues whose names and outfits were the result of a company competition. 

Braxton Smith II said the pigs represent Glenny Glass’ strong ties to the Cincinnati area.

Strong values and traditions passed down from owner to owner have guided the company to its 175th year, Braxton Smith II said.

 “Our ability to service the customer and be price competitive [is what] makes us 175 years old,” said Michael Stewart, a Glenny Glass sales manager. 

Rufus Smith said he gained ownership of the Glenny Glass Co. from the Startsmens, who had been holding up the same integrity and values that the original founder William Glenny had instilled into the company in 1851 when it was founded. In 2021 twin brothers Braxton Smith II and Joseph Smith joined their father, which they said is how they maintain those values today.

“We’re not a corporation” Braxton Smith II said. “We treat people the right way.”  

For the Glenny Glass company, customer satisfaction is one of the most important values that have been maintained throughout the years. 

“My dad always says there’s quality, service, and price, and you can only pick two,” Braxton Smith II said. “We offer exceptional service and quality for our customers.” 

Stewart agreed. 

“The key to our success is turn-around time; getting good quality glass out to the client as fast as we can”.