Lancaster, OHIO – The Ohio Glass Museum (OGM) received $40,000 from the Ohio 2021 Capital Budget – Senate Bill 310 – in late December to be used specifically for remodeling the lower level of the museum building.
The glass museum located in downtown Lancaster was incorporated in 2002 and construction came in 2004. The museum highlights glass making in the Lancaster area and the importance of that industry for the area. Lancaster has been home to many glass making manufacturers over the years, they even highlight glass in their New Year drop event. The glass blowing studio even offers glass making and blowing events people can sign up for.
“We extend a big thank you to Senator Tim Schaffer for his continuous support of the Ohio Glass Museum,” said Mike Shook, Museum Board President. “Since our inception, Senator Schaffer has been a patron and advocate for our organization. We are grateful that he was able to ensure this funding was part of the state’s capital improvements budget for the coming year.”
The lower level of the museum consists of two basements that do not connect. One basement is being used to store glass archives. The adjoining 1,250 square foot basement space is not currently easily accessed. Phase I for this expansion project will include creating a door between the two basements for direct access. Phase II will convert the unimproved basement area into usable space to provide additional glass archive storage and create a convenient workspace for our Museum patrons and guests to enjoy new and exciting glass art classes.
“Our goal with the newly renovated basement is to provide more opportunities to learn the multi-faceted art of glass making,” said Mike Shook, Museum Board President. “We are eager to bring new classes to our customers such as flame working and fusion glass. Our plans are to eventually offer these programs and art forms to the local school systems in conjunction with the STEAM science and art curriculums.”
Capital funding and grants are often limited to fund only a specific project – in this case, our museum expansion. Therefore, the Ohio Glass Museum continues to rely on its community’s support for operations, including classes, tours and educational events. If you would like to support the Ohio Glass Museum in bringing unique art education to the community, visit https://ohioglassmuseum.org/membership.
Although Museum tours and glass blowing demonstrations are limited during the months of January and February, VIP tours can be scheduled on an appointment-only basis, and the gift shop is open Tuesday through Saturday. A museum tour offers a safe option for you and your family to get out of the house and enjoy something new. For gift shop hours or to schedule a VIP tour, visit https://ohioglassmuseum.org/.
