Collection Overview

Reflections: A Preface

Little did Dorothy and Jacque Vallier know that when they serendipitously began collecting pressed glass goblets it would be the beginning of a world-class collection. Inspired by a GOOSEBERRY sugar and creamer from her family's farm, Dory began to collect goblets at the time Jacque was completing his collection of implements and memorabilia for a logging museum. After their first goblet purchases in 1969, Dory and Jacque shared a serious interest in pressed glass collecting. Together, they kept detailed records of each purchase and its particular attributes.

Favorite Goblets

By 1984 they had acquired over 1200 different patterns of pressed glass goblets and the collection was outgrowing their home. In July, 1984, the Valliers gave the entire collection to the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point. Sharing their personal property for the benefit and edification of others was not new to Dory and Jacque. They gave the university its experimental forest, Treehaven in 1979. In addition to giving their elaborate and well-documented goblet collection to the university, they generously helped underwrite the costs of a permanent installation in the Fine Arts Center, and the research and publication of this catalog.(50 Favorites: Early American Pressed Glass Goblets)

The installation includes five permanent exhibition cases to display the Vallier collection and an introductory section. The introductory case highlights the production and collecting history of pressed glass and, along with the catalog, helps accomplish the Valliers' main objective: To increase an awareness and appreciation of pressed glass for the enthusiast as well as the novice.

A leading authority on glass, Kirk J. Nelson, was chosen to write the critical essays for this catalog. He skillfully illuminates what is known about the specific origins of each goblet and tells facinating stories of how the events and culture of 19th-century America are revealed in various designs and patterns. Detailed photographs strengthen the documentary nature of this catalog.

The addition of such an outstanding collection of American pressed glass would please any institution. The University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point is fortunate to have the vision and unflagging enthusiasm of Dory and Jacque Vallier who bring this unique and beautiful collection to light for all of us.

Renee Gouaux Project Director and Exhibition Curator
April, 1993

(Excerpted from the catalog: (50 Favorites: Early American Pressed Glass Goblets Selections from the Dorothy and Jacque Vallier Collection)