About Us:
Attended the Corcoran School of Art in Washington DC in the late 60s. Barney found her niche in art glass in the early 90s. She honed her skills for a decade or so before making it her full-time passion.
Husband Bob had a long career as glassblower with NASA and after his retirement in 1994, he took on commission glass work in both the scientific and art world. Zekiah Glass was established in 1989, primarily for Bob’s glassblowing services.
Barney began teaching stained glass in 1997 and this aspect of the business has always been her favorite. The couple collaborated on several commissioned works while still in Southern Maryland, including Sacred Heart Catholic Church in La Plata, New Hope in White Plains, and many large-scale custom panels for area residences.
In 1999, Bob and Barney moved to the Northern Neck of Virginia to escape the burgeoning development in La Plata Barney agreed to “go to the middle of nowhere” with the provision that she would continue conducting classes but as a weekend getaway, having students stay in guest rooms for the two-day class.
Thus, Chestnut Cove B&B became the accommodations for her visiting students. Not your typical B&B, guests come here for a getaway but leave with a beautiful original work of art that they create while here. Delicious home-baked delicacies, the ambiance of a secluded waterfront setting, and an entertaining glass workshop combine for a totally unique experience.
After 45 years of togetherness, 35 years of marriage, and 30 years of being business partners, Bob “left the planet,” as he would say, in July 2019, just shy of his 80th birthday.
His spirit lives on here at Zekiah Glass/Chestnut Cove B&B. Barney continues his legacy of fun and creativity, and invites one and all to join her at this glass wonderland.