The Tioga County Historical Society Museum is hosting a private collection of Kraft Cheese glasses on loan by Roger Sharp. This collection has been in the process from approximately 1990. It is not complete but contains over 85 examples.

 Swanky Swigs were originally used by the Kraft Food Company for cheese spreads. When empty, the glass could be washed out and used as a juice glass or small tumbler. They were introduced in the early 1930s and brightened up many tables during the Depression. Swanky Swig Glasses were manufactured from the 1930's thru the 1950's, they almost always contained cheese or other spreads. They came in many different colors & designs. Collectors call them "Swanky Swigs" due in part to their swanky decorations featuring colorful flowers, stars & even centennial themes. There have been approximately 100 different glasses identified as the Kraft Glasses.   Kraft did not keep a record of the styles. Kraft made three sizes of glasses and is known to have produced them in Canada, Australia and the United States. Older glasses with a similar look originally held other types of products, and these are sometimes referred to as swanky swigs as well but not usually by collecting purists.  

 The use of patterns and pictures has continued and they became the character glasses. Many times used for other food products and later as premiums by fast food restaurants and restaurants. A sample of these has been included in the collection.  

 The Tioga County Historical Society Museum is at 110 Front Street in Owego, and is open Tuesday through Saturday, 10:00 am to 4:00 pm. The collection will be on display through May.  Admission is free to the general public. Donations are appreciated.  Don't forget to visit the Museum's Gift Shop.