Champlain Glass Company

The Champlain Glass Company, established in 1827, was the first manufacturing enterprise in Burlington. The company, located between N. Champlain and Park (Water) streets, produced and shipped window glass locally and to the west by the Erie Canal. Champlain Glass employed up to 100 workers, both locals and skilled immigrants, and provided housing for workers and their families. Frederick Smith, once an office apprentice, eventually owned the company. The diverse community of Glassville was the foundation for the Old North End. Company owners deeded the site of Battery Park to Burlington in 1840, “as public Common…forever.” From 1840 to 1892, Smith lived in the Gothic Revival-style brick house at 58-60 Park Street across from the park.