Cambridge's Mount Vernon

by Glenita Stearns
Rainbow Review Glass Journal - January 1974

In the l930s Cambridge Glass Company advertised reproductions of Early American Glass. These patterns, hand made and brilliant, as was Mt Vernon ad all Cambridge Glass, were made in over 150 pieces and attracted the eye of many who were interested in Early American Glass but found it too expensive. The patterns made were a Waterford-type pattern named "Virginian," a thumbprint named "Martha Washington," and a diamond point "Mount Vernon."

Of these, Mt. Vernon was the most popular then and remains so today. Part of its popularity is undoubtedly the wide variety of shapes, And the wide variety of color it is seen in is a delight to any collector. Mt Vernon can be found in amber, royal blue, emerald, mandarin gold, heatherbloom, crystal, carmen, milk glass Crown Tuscan and violet. All pieces are not found in every color; and some colors are rare.

Heatherbloom is a lovely pale pink-violet. The first piece of Mt Vernon I found was a goblet in Heatherbloom, and I thought it was sun colored. There is a variation in this color, and several pieces of Heatherbloom might be several different shades.

Violet is an opaque purple, and few pieces of Mt. Vernon are seen in this color. The only place of this color I have seen is a goblet, and it is striking. Another opaque color, milk glass, is seen in more pieces, and more often. The ice tub and three ounce footed tumbler make a lovely bar set. The covered compote is a lovely piece in any color and would be an addition to a milk glass collection.

Also in the opaque category is Crown Tuscan. Very few pieces of Mt. Vernon are seen in Crown Tuscan, and the few examples that are found are in the scarce category. But such a treasure shows up on occasion.

The scarcest of the transparent colors is probably "Carmen" in this pattern. This lovely shade of red is coveted by all who collect glass, and the diamond points of the Mt. Vernon pattern make the glass glow and shimmer.

Emerald is also a scarce color. The goblets are most likely found in this color in Mt. Vernon.

Probably the scarcest piece to find in any color is the beautiful candelabra, very lovely in any color, but in Heatherbloom it is absolutely gorgeous!

A dozen sizes were made in stemware: Goblets, sherbets, footed tumblers and everything in between were made, and a collector should find a few around to add to their treasures.

Many unusual pieces are seen. The 8", 3 compartment relish dish with 3 handles is a darling piece. The 6" handled pickle tray is a lovely piece to use and to admire. Salt and pepper shakers with glass sanitary tops are enjoyed by many collectors, and the salt dips are real gems.

Plates, cups and saucers and other table pieces were manufactured and it would make a delightful table setting. though putting a set together would be a real challenge. Cream and Sugar set was made in two sizes, with the smaller, individual size fitting on a tray. Coasters, finger bowls, six sizes of flat tumblers, cereal bowls, 5" nappies, a sauce boat and ladle, what else might you need to sat your table?

Mt. Vernon is a delightful pattern, whether you own only a piece or two or a collection of it alone. The Cambridge Glass Company did a favor to all of us who collect glass when they decided to manufacture this pattern.