In 1908, the Corning Flint Glass Works sponsored one of the first research laboratories that eventually produced low expansion glass for barn and railroad lanterns. In 1915, this research led to the development of Pyrex cookware--glass that is resistant to heat, chemicals, and electricity. According to Lillian E. Hutchinson's Department Store Merchandise Manual (1918, pages 75-76), glass baking dishes were touted as being very attractive and food could be served directly from these dishes. The dishes were also advertised as not absorbing flavors and being very easy to clean. The transparency of the glass was said to make it convenient for storing foods and at one glance one could see the contents.
