“Old Colony” must have been a popular name back in the 1930s as both Hocking and Heisey produced extensive patterns with this name. Hocking Old Colony is depression glass, mass produced with the usual little blobs and marks we expect. Heisey’s Old Colony is a lovely etched design made in high quality crystal with extensive hand work. You won’t have any trouble telling them apart!
This is the relish dish from Hocking. Notice the rim with its alternating large and small holes and the pressed star in the center.
Tumblers of course don’t have holes in their rim – dribble glasses anyone? – nor do cups, sugar bowls or creamers. These pieces have ridges on the side as seen as you can see on the Replacements site.
Footed tumblers have scallops on the foot.
I don’t think Old Colony is particularly rare, nor is it one of the most sought-after, popular patterns. In 16 years of selling glass we’ve had the relish tray shown above, several bowls, flower pots or vases, and saucers, but I’ve rarely seen plates, cups or tumblers.
There are variations in a few pieces. You can find the large serving bowl with plain sides and the star in the base like this one.
Or you may find the same bowl except with ridges on the sides. This one has ridges on the lace edges too.
This photo shows a selection of pieces at a glass show including tumblers and different styles of relish trays.
Old Colony prices vary from modest, such as the relish tray which you can find for about $20, to quite costly with the footed tumblers booking around $60 and candle holders in the $150-$200 range. You can get a reasonable dinner or luncheon set without going broke with dinner and salad plates but under $30.
Consider collecting Old Colony if the style appeals to you since it is affordable and reasonably available with some searching. It’s always fun to go antiquing and have a piece or two to look for!