See Nuclear Glass In Southington: What You Need To Know

SOUTHINGTON, CT — A new exhibit that opened Wednesday, Oct. 11, at Southington's Barnes Museum showcases a special glass goblet collection offering "unique luminescence."

But let's call it what it really is — nuclear glass.

Titled "Haunted Radiance: Uranium Glass History and Uses," the Southington museum's showcase exhibit is on display just in time for Halloween and its colors.

Before uranium was used to make bombs, reactors, and power plants after World War II, trace amounts of it were dumped into glass mixtures for a long-ago craft.

The end result was a piece of fine glassware that was highly collectible in the 1800s and pre-World War II 1900s.

Manufacturing uranium glass products died down after World War II, as uranium supplies decreased because it was being used for more destructive means. (Not including time machines in 'Back to the Future.')

Now antique and very, very fragile (Barnes guests, leave your bulls home), "Uranium Goblets" of all shapes and sizes are on display at the museum, which is the town's history and art showcase.

Of course, uranium glass' properties aren't much different from traditional glass, except they glow in the dark, a trait that makes them highly collectible and visually stunning.

The Barnes Museum, located at 85 N. Main St., Southington, will have the exhibit on glowing display through Nov. 11.

Guests can tour the exhibit Wednesdays through Fridays from 1 to 5 p.m. or they can call the museum for a private appointment.

"Discover the captivating history behind uranium glass its vibrant hues brought to life by its radioactive properties," wrote the museum.

"Immerse yourself in a journey that spans centuries, from its origins to the artistry that has crafted these remarkable pieces."

And don't fret. You won't glow in the dark after visiting.

For more information on the "Haunted Radiance" exhibit, click on this link.

For more information on uranium glass, click on this link.