"This decision was difficult," company President George W. Fenton said. "Since the announcement in June regarding our efforts toward financial restructuring, we took many steps to try to continue the company's operations and the tradition of glassmaking. Ultimately, those efforts were not successful.

"After discussions with our largest creditor, we agreed on an orderly plan to wind down our business," Fenton said. "We want to pay off as much of our debt as possible before we cease operations altogether, and this plan allows us to do that. We met with our employees today, and we expect to continue some level of glass production and glass decorating to fill orders for our products."

Approximately 25 employees will let go immediately after the announcement in August, with more planned over coming months.

"We want to thank those in the local community for their support," Fenton said, "and we want to thank our larger customer community. Most of all, we want to thank all of the current and past employees of Fenton Art Glass who have been part of the Fenton tradition of glassmaking."