Wealden Glass: The old Surrey and Sussex Industry

JSGT 1932 V16 T254-T271

The names and positions of twenty-seven sites of old glass-houses in N.W. Sussex and S.W. Surrey are given, extending over an area of about 10 miles square. The reason why Frenchmen settled there is discussed. The known history of glass-makers from 1226 to about 1600 is briefly sketched. The materials used in mediaeval glass-making are cited and details given of crucibles, blow-pipes, glass-houses, furnaces, etc. A description is given of the types of glass found on the sites, both vessel and window. The question of the manipulation of coloured glass is discussed, and the conclusion reached that, with rare exceptions, it was not made here until the early 16th century; coloured glass was nearly all imported. A rough chronological classification of types of glass is attempted. Places where specimens of glass remains, etc., may be seen are quoted.

S. E. Winbolt