By Randy Ruthford, Wetzel Chronicle
PADEN CITY, W.Va. — In a proud celebration of craftsmanship, history and legacy, the Paul Wissmach Glass Company has been officially recognized as a West Virginia Centurion business by the West Virginia Secretary of State’s Office. The company, which has operated continuously from its location in Paden City since 1904, was presented with the award this week by Secretary of State Kris Warner in honor of its 121 years of service to the state and the global glassmaking community.
Founded by Paul Wissmach in 1904 under the name Ohio Valley Glass Company, the business quickly built a worldwide reputation as a dependable and innovative glassmaker. Renowned for its wide array of colors, textures, and levels of transparency, Wissmach Glass became synonymous with artistic excellence serving designers, stained glass artisans, and religious institutions around the globe.
From 1910 until 1987, the company remained under the stewardship of the Wissmach family. After founder Paul Wissmach, the business was passed to his nephew Alfred Vollmar, and later to Alfred’s sister, including Paul’s niece, Marguerite Vollmar, who carried on the family tradition with a deep appreciation for the artistry of glassmaking.
