Owens-Illinois Glass Company History
The Owens Bottling Company merged with Illinois Glass Company in 1929 to form Owens-Illinois. Owens-Illinois is iconic in Alton’s industrial history. The Alton business, consisting of three manufacturing plants, not only provided first-rate employment opportunities, but also offered many after-hours activities such as award banquets, private clubrooms, and sporting events.
Unfortunately, the last O-I plant closed its doors on December 15, 2006, but the impact left by this corporation had already been etched into Alton’s history.
After reading this short history, don’t overlook the many other Owens-Illinois books available in the Illinois Room that focus on the employees who helped make this business a successful industry in Alton for many years. These books are one of a kind and can be used for local history research as well as a genealogical resource. (IR 666.1 OWE) PB