The workers of the J. S. O’Connor Rich Cut Glass Company in Hawley posed for this photo during the factory’s heyday in the 1890s. The company was one of the largest glass-cutting factories in America, as well as a major employer in Wayne County, PA. One of the finest glass cutters in the United States, O’Connor, a native of Ireland and Civil War veteran, worked as head of Christian Dorflinger’s glass cutting shop for nearly 23 years. In 1890, using an inheritance from his father, he built his imposing factory on solid rock in Hawley with a capacity of 250 cutting frames. The stone factory building over Wallenpaupack Creek was water-powered and lit by electricity. The building is still standing today as the elegant Ledges Hotel, owned by the Settlers Hospitality Group, which also owns the Settlers Inn in Hawley and specializes in converting historic buildings into modern hotels.

Information provided by the Wayne County Historical Society, 810 Main St., Honesdale. The museum, research library and shop are open Friday and Saturday 10 a. m. to 3 p.m.