News Summary
The Mangham brothers, known as the Northwest Louisiana History Hunters, have reignited conversations about the redevelopment of the abandoned Libbey Glass Factory in Shreveport. After their exploration of the site, which closed in December 2020 after nearly a century of operation, discussions have emerged regarding its potential future. The North Louisiana Economic Partnership is finalizing plans for industrial reuse of the 54-acre property, prompting hopes for a new chapter in the factory’s story.
Shreveport, LA – Twin brothers Mike and Mark Mangham, also known as the Northwest Louisiana History Hunters, have sparked renewed interest in the redevelopment of the abandoned Libbey Glass Factory, following their exploration of the site on Jewella Avenue. The factory has been empty since its closure on December 30, 2020, after nearly a century of operation, and the brothers’ findings have revived discussions on the site’s potential future.
During their recent tour, the Manghams described the atmosphere of the factory as eerie, with remnants of its operation still visible. Desks remain cluttered with papers, and calendars hanging on the walls showcase the year 2020, the last full year of activity before the factory halted operations due to declining demand aggravated by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Historical Significance
The Libbey Glass Factory opened in Shreveport in 1922 under the Libbey-Owens name as a sheet glass manufacturing plant. Over the years, it grew to become the largest manufacturer and employer in the city, pivoting its focus to tableware production between 1972 and 1974. Libbey Inc., headquartered in Toledo, Ohio, had invested significantly in the facility, with a notable $20 million modernization plan initiated in 2013 aimed at preserving jobs and enhancing productivity.
However, the landscape changed dramatically in 2020 when Libbey announced a tentative plan to cease operations at the Shreveport factory. Declining demand for glass products resulted in overcapacity, leading to the company’s Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing in June 2020, which aimed to better align their manufacturing practices with lower demand forecasts. After union negotiations were unsuccessful in preventing job losses, the factory closed its doors at the end of December 2020, putting an end to 98 years of production.
Future Prospects for Redevelopment
In the wake of the closure, rumors of potential demolition circulated on social media. However, current developments suggest a shift towards redevelopment. As of late April 2025, the North Louisiana Economic Partnership (NLEP) is finalizing due diligence for the site, with plans to acquire and market the facility for industrial reuse. The large 54-acre lot features a 170,000-square-foot warehouse, three furnaces, and extensive manufacturing equipment, making it a prime candidate for new manufacturing operations.
Realtor Chris Stokes, who has listed the property for $8 million since January, envisions a second chance for the site. With key infrastructure in place, including a Union Pacific rail spur and ample access to electrical power and natural gas, the site offers potential for various manufacturing opportunities. Discussions are ongoing regarding its future use, ranging from glass production to the construction of solar panels.
Community Sentiment and Concerns
The Libbey plant holds both historical and sentimental value for the local community, and its future remains a topic of great interest among Shreveport residents. Importantly, the facility has not been contaminated with environmental issues, adding to its attractiveness as a redevelopment site.
As the NLEP moves forward with state funding aimed at repurposing the property for future manufacturing, the community watches closely, hopeful for a new chapter in the life of a building that has long been a cornerstone of Shreveport’s industrial history.
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Additional Resources
- Libbey Glass Plant Redevelopment – 710 KEEL
- Shreveport Libbey Glass Plant News – KTAL News
- Libbey Glass Manufacturing Plant for Sale – Shreveport-Bossier Advocate
- Goodbye Libbey Glass Plant – Shreveport Times
- Google Search: Libbey Glass Plant Shreveport
Author: STAFF HERE SHREVEPORT WRITER
The SHREVEPORT STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREShreveport.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Shreveport, Caddo Parish, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Mudbug Madness Festival, Red River Revel Arts Festival, and Independence Bowl. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Shreveport-Bossier Chamber of Commerce and Shreveport Regional Arts Council, plus leading businesses in gaming, healthcare, and energy that power the local economy such as Horseshoe Casino, Ochsner LSU Health, and Atmos Energy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBatonRouge.com and HERENewOrleans.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Louisiana's dynamic landscape.
