The House Of Glass

Originally Aired: March 24, 1937 Cavalcade of America #75, "The House Of Glass," tells the story of Henry William Stiegel, an ambitious young German immigrant who arrives in Pennsylvania in 1752 with grand visions for American industry. Working at Jacob Huber's iron furnace, the eager Stiegel approaches his employer with two bold requests: permission to marry Huber's daughter Elizabeth and the opportunity to revolutionize their business. While Huber is content with his modest local market, Stiegel envisions selling innovative iron stoves to distant markets like the West Indies and across the growing colonies. His persuasive enthusiasm wins over both his future father-in-law and his bride. Stiegel's success with improved stove designs, including a revolutionary ten-plate model, leads to prosperity and partnership with the Steadman brothers. However, his restless ambition soon turns to an entirely new venture. When three skilled glass blowers end up working at his iron furnace, Stiegel sees an opportunity to establish an American glass industry. Despite partner Alexander Steadman's skepticism about diverting resources from their profitable iron business, Stiegel pursues his vision with characteristic determination, even planning a trip to England to recruit the finest glass blowers in Europe.