The History of Fenton Lamps

Brothers Frank and John Fenton founded the Fenton Art Glass Company in 1905 in Martins Ferry, Ohio. In the early years, Fenton designs were inspired by Tiffany and Steuben, according to the company's corporate history. The Fenton company began making glass lamp globes for other companies in the 1930s, according to Randy's Antiques.

Fairy Lamps

In 1953, Fenton began producing its popular "fairy lamp" -- a small, oval-shaped glass lamp lit with a tea light candle, according to the website Fairy-Lamp.com. These lamps were recreations of designs popular during the Victorian era.

First Lamp

Fenton created its first full-sized art glass lamp in 1966, according to Randy's Antiques. The following year, the company released its first lamp catalog.

Fenton Lamps Today

As of 2010, Fenton continues to produce art glass lamps in a variety of shapes and styles. The most-expensive models cost close to $1,000, according to Fenton USA. The Fenton Fan website states that Fenton lamps are usually signed on the inside of the bottom of the globe.

References

• Randy's Antiques: Fenton History
• Fenton Fan: Fenton FAQ
• Fairy-Lamp.com: Fenton Fairy Lights