A happy couple poses for engagement photos beneath the iconic Kennett Glass sign on State Street
Located on State Street, Kennett Glass stands as one of Kennett Square’s longest-running and most trusted businesses. Since opening its doors in 1978, it has become a staple of the community — joining the ranks of other long standing State Street merchants like Burton’s Barbershop (est. 1892) and Sam’s Sub Shop (est. 1946). The iconic teal sign is a familiar sight in uptown Kennett Square — a symbol of skilled craftsmanship and small-town resilience that has served Chester County, PA, and Wilmington, DE for more than four decades.
The story of Kennett Glass began in the middle of a recession, when two recent college grads were simply looking for a fair shot at making a living. Bob Davis, a business major from Villanova and a native New Yorker, and Dave Hennessy, his college friend, found themselves short on prospects until a friend tipped them off about job openings at a glass company on the Main Line.
“You’re young, strong, and can load a truck — you’re hired,” they were told.
It was a modest start — but it launched a partnership that has lasted over 40 years.
Living together in Unionville, Bob and Dave made the daily commute, learning the glass trade from the ground up. With time, experience, and ambition, they decided to go out on their own — opening Kennett Glass in what was then a much different version of Kennett Square. The town was rougher, and far from the vibrant destination it is today. Bob recalls that Lettys, which was formally The Kennett Inn and at the time he opened Kennett Glass – it was The Greene Gate. Waywood Beverage was The Red Lantern. Bob also explained that not everyone was welcomed into The Conja Lounge, or Midge’s. Bob admits that Kennett Square has changed for the better. “It’s a safer, more welcoming place now,”
Two employees pause for a quick photo in front of the glass cutting table
What began as a two-man operation has since grown into a thriving company with 15 employees, 6 trucks, and a reputation that extends far beyond the borough. From custom shower doors and mirrors to specialty glasswork and historic window restoration, Kennett Glass has built its name on quality, precision, and care. In fact, it’s now the largest seller of antique window glass in the country, regularly working on historic preservation projects across the U.S.
At the heart of Kennett Glass isn’t just expert work — it’s a commitment to people. Many employees have been with the company for 20, even 40 years, a testament to the workplace culture Bob and Dave have built.
“If you work here, you’re not just learning a trade — you’re building a career,” says Bob.
From screen repairs and glass cutting to sleek, modern interiors, Kennett Glass continues to uphold their reputation — and they’re hiring. No experience? No problem.
“Start by shadowing. Learn the craft. Make a living,” Bob says.
“Kennett Glass and their iconic sign is one of those touchstones that makes State Street feel like Kennett Square,” says Daniel Embree, Executive Director of Kennett Collaborative, “They’ve been serving homeowners, businesses, and neighbors with the same friendly expertise for nearly 50 years. I’ve personally turned to them for projects both large and small, from upgrades and repairs at our office building to putting a mirror in an antique frame I found at Clover Market.”
Kennett Glass is a fixture of the community, a place where craftsmanship meets opportunity, and where the work speaks for itself—clear as glass.
Back in the ’80s, a rival glass company challenged Kennett Glass to a friendly softball game. Kennett Glass shattered the competition and won by a landslide!
