Oral History and Chance Glassworks

We believe it is essential to capture the voices of those who worked at Chance Brothers Glassworks, preserving their memories, stories, and perspectives for future generations. The Glassworks was more than just a workplace—it was a community, and the experiences of former employees offer a unique, first-hand insight into what life was like behind the factory gates from the 1940s until its closure in 1981.

Through our ongoing oral history projects, we have recorded many powerful and personal accounts, with plans to collect many more. These stories help bring the past to life, offering a rich, human perspective on the factory’s vast operations, the craftsmanship involved, and the global impact of Chance-made glass.

Oral histories are not just about preserving the past; they are vital to shaping the future. As we work to regenerate the Chance Glassworks site, these voices will help inform how we honour its heritage, culture, and people. By listening to those who were part of its history, we can ensure that the legacy of Chance Brothers is not just remembered, but woven into the fabric of its revival.

If you or someone you know worked at Chances and would like to share your story, we’d love to hear from you (Jane’s email address here jane.deweijer@chanceht.org).

Bi-Centenary Voices

During the 2022 Bicentenary celebration of Chance Brothers at the Pavilion in West Smethwick Park, we gathered a diverse group of community members and heritage enthusiasts to honour the legacy of the iconic Chance Glassworks.

Attendees were invited to share their memories and reflections on working at the glassworks, offering heartfelt anecdotes about daily life and the enduring impact of Chance Brothers on both industry and local culture. This film captures a selection of those inspiring voices. It features former Chance employees who recount their experiences and celebrate the camaraderie of the past, alongside Chance Heritage Trust ambassadors and board members who are committed to preserving this unique heritage. Their stories, filled with nostalgia and pride, not only illuminate the rich history of Chance Brothers but also demonstrate how its legacy continues to shape our community today.

Talking Chances: Voices from the Glassworks

Talking Chances is a powerful collection of interviews with former Chance Brothers Glassworks employees, sharing their personal experiences of life at the factory from the early 1960s to its closure in 1986. These rare first-hand accounts capture the camaraderie, craftsmanship, and dedication that defined the workforce at one of Smethwick’s most important industrial sites.

Originally recorded in 2006 as part of Taking Chances, a Heritage Lottery Funded project celebrating the factory’s legacy, these interviews have now been carefully compiled into a new film by Geoff Broadway. Featuring archival photographs and historical footage from the Chance Heritage Trust archive, the film brings to life the voices of those who worked at the site, offering an intimate look at the everyday realities of glassmaking, the pride in their work, and the deep connections forged within the factory walls.

Both the original recordings and this new compilation have been produced by filmmaker Geoff Broadway.

Love By Chance

Love by Chance is a captivating film by Lauren Hatchard and Olivia James, commissioned by the Living Memory Project (Link for LMP https://livingmemory.live/) in collaboration with the Chance Heritage Trust.

The film chronicles the enduring romance of Gary and Dorothy Watton, who first met in 1956 at Chance Brothers Glassworks in Smethwick. Filmed on location at the former glass factory and in their home in Old Warley, Oldbury, the film transports viewers back to a time when life was simpler and the spark of new love shone brightly.

Lauren was immediately drawn to the magic of unearthing old photographs, memorabilia tucked away in dusty shoeboxes, and treasured artefacts that whisper forgotten stories. This enchantment, combined with the personal narrative of Gary and Dorothy, inspired her to bring their story to life on film. Returning the couple to the very site where their paths first crossed added a nostalgic tour through time, as the derelict, yet atmospheric, Chance Brothers site—with its natural light streaming through broken windows and retro artefacts frozen under a layer of time—became a silent storyteller in its own right.

Working with her long-time colleague Olivia James, Lauren created a piece that is as warm and heartfelt as flipping through an old family album. Love by Chance not only celebrates a remarkable love story on the occasion of their 58th wedding anniversary but also reminds us how our shared memories and stories weave together our rich heritage.

Ray Drury: A Life at Chance Brothers Glassworks

This fascinating interview captures the memories of Ray Drury, who worked at Chance Brothers Glassworks for nearly three decades, rising through the ranks to become Chief Engineer. In his own words, Ray shares what it was like to work at the factory, the sense of pride in craftsmanship, and the strong family atmosphere that made Chance Brothers more than just a workplace.

From building the Flat Glass Engineering Department from scratch to working on cutting-edge automated glass handling systems, Ray’s journey reflects the innovation and dedication that defined the company. He also speaks candidly about the closure of the factory in 1986, the heartbreak of watching it fall silent, and why it’s so important to preserve its legacy today.

This film is part of Chance Heritage Trust’s Oral History Project, ensuring that the voices of those who worked at Chances are remembered for generations to come.