Chalet “Back in the Day”
Chalet collectors hold their glass in very high esteem - it is not taken for granted. It is pondered, discussed, presented, displayed and dusted over and over again! Therefore, I thought it would be interesting to see if this is consistent with how Chalet was viewed historically.
Chalet Artistic Glass operated from September of 1962 until June of 1975. A mere “baker’s dozen” of years - compared to Altaglass which operated from 1950 until 1988. The company’s rise was meteoric and its failure abrupt. However, during its history, it was definitely the Canadian standard for art glass. Right out of the gate, the company received support from municipal, provincial and federal governments. Not only did the company receive incentive monies but the glass was gifted to dignitaries in Canada and abroad and showcased in Canadian embassy residences. The federal and the Ontario governments commissioned special pieces. It was held up as an example of Canadian excellence and creativity at the 1967 World ‘Expo. Films were made citing the company as a model to follow. The press loved to cover the art of glass blowing. It was sold by both national chain stores and boutiques. It was sold internationally…
How does its prominence translate into the Chalet “everyday life” of Joe Public?
Let’s set aside the obvious use of the glass as home decor and go straight to the number one reason to buy a piece of Chalet. Which was? To give as a gift!
The penultimate teacher’s gift. At the 2010 Chalet exhibit, I spoke to several teachers. Each had very fond memories of all the Chalet cranberry apples they had received from pupils as Christmas and end-of-year gifts over their career. One told me she had 23 packed away!
Chalet was popular for Christmas gifting:
And most definitely promoted for Mother’s Day giving:
This advertisement from the Bay ran in the May 7, 1970 edition of the Regina Leader Post which is a member of the Postmedia Network. As the Manitoba youth minimum wage back then was $1.25 hourly, it would have taken them an entire Saturday shift to show their love. $9.99 in 1970 translated through a 2024 lens means that your little darlings would spend $79.03 today to express appreciation for all a Mother does.
Chalet was the perfect wedding present:
And made an awesome house warming gift:
Chalet pieces were given as recognition awards:
At this 1965 Cornwall Lions Club award ceremony, you can see Chalet “splash” vases on the table to the right of presenter “Newsy” LaLonde. From the archives of the Cornwall Community Museum.
Chalet was used as a prize:
As a trophy:
As a tribute gift in honour of visiting dignitaries:
Courtesy of the Cornwall community Museum.
And even at auction, it merited a special mention:
The prediction that Chalet made on their “Canadiana Cranberry” hang tag has come true:
