Shiny Brite Ornaments: The History of a Holiday Classic
- Author Virginia Butters
- Published January 6, 2011
- Word count 472
The invention of Shiny Brite Christmas ornaments was a result of World War II. Christmas trees adorned with sparkling glass balls were popular with Americans. Germany and Japan were the major importer of glass ornaments in the 1930's.
American businessman Max Eckart had been importing Christmas tree ornaments into the U.S. from Germany since 1907. World War I took a major toll on his operations, and although he was able to recover, the dawning of World War II made him realize his business would soon be in trouble again. His plan to handle the hardship was brilliant.
Glassblowers from many European countries famed for making high-quality ornaments were in the employ of Corning Glass. Corning held the patent for a type of glassblowing machine used in the manufacture of light bulbs. The "ribbon" glassblowing machine could easily produce an astounding 2,000 bulbs in one minute. With a few alterations, this contraption would could produce glass Christmas tree ornaments instead of lightbulbs. Eckardt saw it's potential at once.
In a year, the company began tests using Christmas ornament forms in various shapes and sizes. Soon after, the U.S.'s main purveyor of ornaments from abroad, Woolworth's, asked that Corning produce over 230,000 glass holiday items for sale in their stores. Woolworth's was also aware that war was inevitable and would have an impact on the availablity of glass ornaments, and so were looking for a source within the U.S. In 1939, they began selling the new, American-made ornaments.
By 1940, Corning Glass was producing nearly 300,000 decorations daily, and shipping them to retail stores nationwide. Of all their buyers, Corning sold the most to Max Eckhardt's Shiny Brite.
He made Shiny Brite Christmas balls and decorations throughout the war. Shiny Brite had innovative solutions to problems brought on by rationing. When metal paints and varnish were unavailable, he began banding balls with slim lines in light shades. Glimmering tops made from various metals were replaced by folded hangers made from cardboard and glued in place.
Shiny Brite was the leading maker of glass Christmas decorations by the end of the war. They began making ornaments decorated with vibrant hues, which reflected the vivacity of the post-war era. The traditional metal tops were once again used, this time bearing a proud stamp declaring that Shiny Brite ornaments were U.S.-made. The boxes they were packed in, too, were marked "American Made."
In 1962, Shiny Brite stopped producing Christmas ornaments. The ornaments continue to be a popular collector's item.
Thanks to Christopher Radko, these ornaments are once again available. He purchased the right to use the name Shiny Brite, and in 2001 started making authentic replications of the ornaments. The ornaments are exquisitely detailed, and even their boxes bear a strong resemblance to the originals. The sentimental beauty of these gleaming glass ornaments is once again ours to enjoy.
Read more about Shiny Brite Ornaments at Vintage Christmas Decorations.
Article source: https://articlebiz.comRate article
Article comments
There are no posted comments.
Related articles
- Commercial Cleaning Services in Auckland: A Deep Dive into Angel Cleaning
- How Anyone Can Start an Online Business Selling Digital Products
- Introduction to Commercial Cleaning Services in Auckland and North Shore
- The Value of a Startup Coach: Guiding Entrepreneurs Toward Success
- Can I Do Affiliate Marketing Without Showing My Face? A Complete Guide for the Camera-Shy Marketer
- How to Merge Images: A Step-by-Step Guide for Online Marketers
- Steady Slope Marketing: Launching Your Small Business with Google My Business and Digital Marketing
- Why Aqueous Ozone Disinfecting is Revolutionizing Restaurant Hygiene
- Top 5 Ways To Generate Low Cost Website Traffic
- 5 WAYS TO EARN MONEY ONLINE FROM CONTENT WRITING
- Our Journey: The Story Behind All Seasons Cleaning Services
- All Seasons Cleaning Services: A Commitment to Excellence in Exterior Maintenance
- All Seasons Cleaning Services: Your Trusted Partner for Roof Cleaning in Vancouver WA and Portland OR
- Energy Efficiency Considerations for Sliding Glass Doors
- The 7 Best Ways To Make Money Online From Home
- 8 Compelling Reasons to Hire the Best Interior Design Firm in Dhaka
- The Ultimate Guide to Selling Your Land in Lee County
- The Process to Make Cannabis Oil
- How to Choose a Profitable Online Course Niche in 2024: A Complete Guide
- Sustainable Comfort: Exploring Heat Pump Replacement Services in Milwaukee
- From Dog Bite to Bath Bliss: The Tale of Bayside Soapworks
- Keeping Your Milwaukee Home Cool and Comfortable: A Guide to Home Air Conditioning Services
- Mastering the Art of the Hustle: Golden Rules for Success
- The Advantages of Toca Boca: Engaging, Educational, and Entertaining
- ac repair somerset
- How to Get the Money to Start Your Business: 3 Simple Steps – No Credit Needed
- How to start making passive income through affiliate marketing.
- How to Start Your Supermarket Business in Dubai?
- The Art of Stain Removal: Proven Techniques for Tackling Tough Spots
- Unlock your Potential: How to Make Money Online Today