~ Steve & Elaine Maag

Back in the early 1980’s, I collected Heisey glassware, coins, and a few other things. In the late 1980’s, I opened an antiques, collectibles, crafts, and gifts shop in Millersburg, Ohio. I thought that I should try to learn about this Millersburg Glass since that was where my shop was located. I bought some at a local auction and had it in the shop when Harold Wagner stopped in. He gave me some pointers about Millersburg Glass and that was the beginning of a long friendship with Harold and Dolores.

The first carnival club I joined was the ACGA. Not long after, I went to a convention. Soon, I was hooked and joined several other clubs and was going to conventions all over the country, from the east coast to Florida, Texas, California, and many places in between. I learned a lot about carnival glass and made friends all over the country. I got to see some great collections including the Hamlet’s and Whitley’s. I visited with author Marie McGee at her home in California and she came to visit Millersburg also.

I have owned over 1,400 pieces of Millersburg Glass and sold over 1,200, a few of which I wish I had back! There are a few pieces that I did sell and have gotten back. I really enjoy collecting and learning about Millersburg Glass and the community of collectors. There is always new information and unknown pieces coming to light.

Several years ago, a small group got together to form the Millersburg Glass Association. I’m sure Harold Wagner would have been thrilled about the club and been an integral part because he also loved Millersburg Glass! He was always happy to share information and show their collection, which is a great way to learn, seeing it in person.

I very much appreciate Carnival Glass Showcase with all the great information and pictures that are shared for all to see! There were very limited resources for information sharing back in the day when I got started. That seems funny, because it doesn’t seem like all that long ago!

~ Steve & Elaine Maag