Marbles have always been popular toys. However, what some may not know is that glass marbles weren’t always the norm. Early marbles, which are highly sought after by antique toy collectors, were actually made from clay and were often referred to as Bennington marbles.
Bennington marbles are those that were glazed and made of crockery or stoneware. The term ‘Bennington’ is often used because it is believed that these marbles were made in Vermont in a town bearing the same name. However, there are no records to support this claim, and authorities in Vermont also deny it. Although it isn’t certain as to whether or not Bennington, Vermont is the true home of Bennington marbles, collectors still use the term when describing them.
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When it comes to Bennington marbles, there are three different types. In addition to Bennington Fancy and blue glazed, the most common is brown glazed. Although two are self-explanatory, Bennington Fancy refers to stoneware marbles that have been glazed with various colors, giving them a sponged look.
It was around 1870 that clay marbles such as these began being produced in bulk. Glass marbles would come on the scene when the first manufacturing machines were launched during the 1890s.
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