Depression Glass excites collectors

Some people would find it hard to believe that a plate from their dinner table could end up in a museum. Still, an exhibit has just opened at the State Historical Building that features a wide array of Depression Glass, most of it from Iowans’ dinner tables from decades past.Michael Smith, the chief curator for the State Historical Society of Iowa, says they have about 400 pieces of the glass on display. He says Depression Glass was produced during the years of the Great Depression — from around 1920 to 1940. He says it was not fine crystal, but was what the average household could afford. So why is it such a wanted commodity? He says nostalgia probably drives the interest, as many people grew up with it.All of the 400-some pieces in the collection came from the Iowa Depression Glass Club, so Smith says most of the items were actually used by Iowans. He says this is a popular and an affordable collectible. He says many collectors got their first piece from relatives.The collection includes a range of dinner plates, cups, saucers, serving pieces, a glass rolling pin, vases, tea sets, even cigarette boxes. The exhibit will be on display at the State Historical Building in Des Moines through November 3rd. Admission is free.