Women working in the Glass Industry

Kate Round


Organisation:
DMBC Museum Service
Region:
West Midlands
Notice Period:
Regular (more than one month's notice)
Type:
Professional
Fee:
Paid: £45 plus mileage at .45p/mile from DY8 4AZ
Category:
History
Updated:
6th October 2020

The White House Cone Glass Museum is custodian of many thousands of pieces of glassware reflecting the skills and artistry of glassblowers, designers, and decorators from the Stourbridge area for over 400years. It reflects the industrial efforts from such world-renowned makers as Richardson’s, Stuart Crystal, Royal Brierley Crystal and Webb Corbett’s. Yet how many pieces in the collection have been produced solely by women? Within those hot working factory conditions, it was said that the only limitation to the glass-blower’s art is ‘the strength in his arm’ and the hot shops were considered at be an all-male environment, women were not allowed. Archive sources and ladies who worked in the glass industry have helped me uncover a fascinating account of this 'glass ceiling'. From the 1860's to the present day. This is a revealing account of changing attitudes and the struggles between Unions, Management and workers to allow women to do 'men’s work'.

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About Kate Round

My name is Dr Kate Round; I am an outreach presenter and tour guide for Dudley Museum Service

In the glass industry, my interests include the historical development of the industry in the Stourbridge district, how the geology and geography impacted on the wealth and sociology of the area, driven by the rivalries of our Glass Dynasties.

In my previous life, I was a research chemist and lecturer so understand the chemistry of glass having worked on the synthesis of ‘zeolites’ (silica based materials) with my work published in International Journals.

I have always lived in the Black Country and have a strong industrial family heritage, I have also been proud to serve my community as a local Magistrate for twenty years.

Find out more at www.kateround.com


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