The national sea glass festival is right around the corner ( Oct 9th and 10th ). This year sea glass collectors from around the world will converge on Cape Cod at the Resort & Conference Center at Hyannis. Along with over 50 sea glass artisans and enthusiasts there will be lectures presented by notables on the history of glass and sea glass collecting. Here is a list of the lectures to take place during this grand event:
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 9
Cape Cod Bay & Nantucket Sound: America’s Frontier Ecosystems - 11:00 AM
Theresa Barbo, Author/Historian
Since the 16th century through contemporary times, Cape Cod Bay and Nantucket Sound have been a part of America’s history pages. From European exploration to waves of immigration, to armed conflicts with other nations, and to the dynamic natural resources and wildlife within these precious areas, these historic waterways have seen it all! Hear history come alive in this unique, illustrated presented by one of Cape Cod’s leading non-fiction authors and noted lecturers.
A Century of Sandwich Glass - 1:00 PM
Dorothy Schofield, Curator of Collections
Sandwich Glass Museum Sandwich glass is often noted for its beautiful pressed wares that were made in a myriad of colors during the 19th Century. However, during its 63 years of operation the Boston & Sandwich Glass Company (1825-1888) produced a wide range of products including blown, mold-blown, pressed, and decorated wares. A look at the history and products of this now famous glass house, as well as other Sandwich glass companies, will be discussed.
Why Does Sea Glass Matter? - 2:00 PM
Celia Pearson, Photographer
Why does sea glass matter? You might be asking that question or already have answers. Celebrate the beauty and essence of these man- and nature-made forms from the unique perspective of Pure Sea Glass photographer Celia Pearson. For the past seven years this nationally recognized artist has trained her eye on sea glass. Ignite or reaffirm your own wonder through her latest images, stories and insights about these gifts from the sea.
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 10
Shards Reveal Much of New England’s Past - 11:00 AM
Carole Lambert, Author
Seemingly worthless broken bits of china, ceramics, and pottery found on New England beaches offer valuable clues to the region’s past and present. Beachcombers are able to see with an archaeologist’s eye how the duplicitous nature of sea shards, both sturdy and fragile, connect history, science, art, and nature.
From Shipwrecks to Bottlenecks: Locating and Identifying Shipwrecked Treasure and Other Unique Regional Finds - 1:00 PM
Ellie Holmes, B.A. Geography, G.W. University
Ellie Mercier, an avid Geographer and sea glass collector offers a synopsis of locating and identifying the origins of found M.A.T., Johns Hopkins University objects, including items derived from shipwrecks. In addition, Ellie will share tips for locating treasures specific to particular coastal areas.
Going Sea Glass Wild on The Greek Isles - 2:00 PM
Christeena H. Minopetros, Sea Glass Jewels
Join Christeena on a sea glass journey for the ultimate piece of sea glass through the Greek Islands. Presentation will include photos of the islands and special collecting places.
The first day of the sea glass festival in Hyannis, MA was a success. I don't have a tally of the gate yet but it sure appeared that a few thousand enthusiasts showed up. It will be very interesting to see what sea glass shards have been entered into the "Shard of the Year" contest.
In the first-ever book on the subject, Sea Glass Chronicles: Whispers from the Past, Carole Lambert introduced the reader to the world of sea glass through her personal collection. Now, in her "tell-all" sequel, Sea Glass Hunter's Handbook (Downeast, Nov 2010, $14.95), Lambert reveals the secrets behind finding and identifying the best samples of these unique collectables. From great tips on useful tools and techniques and a glossary of related terms, to a list of some of the best sea glass beaches in the world, this book is an essential part of any collector's or would-be collector's library.
