From Stuart Crystal to Stourbridge Glass Museum
A Story Told Through GlassCuts
Stourbridge Glass Museum now honours the region’s rich glassmaking heritage. Following its transformation from the vandalised, fire-damaged remains of the former Stuart Crystal factory into an award-winning visitor attraction has been a journey of vision, dedication, and community spirit. This remarkable story has been documented step by step through GlassCuts – the Museum’s official newsletter. Published regularly by Graham Fisher MBE, with support from Lynn Boleyn MBE, on behalf of the British Glass Foundation (BGF), the charity that runs the museum, GlassCuts has become an essential record of progress, announcements, behind-the-scenes updates, and What’s on at the museum. From its first edition in October 2011 to its 267th and counting, it traces the ongoing revival of a once-silent corner of the Stourbridge Glass Quarter – brought back to life through the shared efforts of a dedicated community.
Following the closure of Broadfield House Glass Museum, BGF stepped forward in 2009 with a mission: to ensure the conservation and display of the internationally important Stourbridge Glass Collection. With generous support from the National Lottery Heritage Fund and a range of other trusts, businesses and individuals, that mission took root in Wordsley, a site steeped in glassmaking history.
Through the tireless work of staff and volunteers, the derelict industrial buildings were transformed into a modern museum. In April 2022, the museum opened informally to the public. It now houses interactive galleries, Allister Malcolm Glass’s vibrant hot glass studio with resident artists, education spaces, and dedicated areas for archiving and research.
The official opening by HRH The Duke of Gloucester in April 2023 marked a significant milestone in this ongoing journey and was followed by national recognition. In 2025, Stourbridge Glass Museum was named Joint Winner of the ‘Sustainable Project of the Year’ at the Museums + Heritage Awards, celebrating its innovative approach to sustainability and long-term community benefit.
With every issue, the story continues.
GlassCuts is more than just a newsletter; it is the voice of the museum. It champions upcoming exhibitions and events, celebrates the work of resident artists, and honours the spirit of the local community. All editions, from the very first to the present day, are available to read on the British Glass Foundation website. You can sign up to receive our newsletter below.