Sammy Hogue’s journey began as a maker of handmade marbles.

Sammy’s marbles were not just simple glass spheres; they were intricate works of art, each telling a story through its unique design and coloration. His ability to manipulate glass into these delicate forms earned him a reputation as a great handmade marble maker.

However, Sammy’s ambitions extended beyond the realm of handmade marbles. His curiosity and desire to explore new frontiers in marble-making led him to experiment with machine-made marbles. This transition demonstrated his adaptability and willingness to embrace modern techniques while maintaining the artisanal quality that defined his work. Sammy’s machine-made marbles are celebrated for their consistency and innovation, bringing a new dimension to the marble community that had been steeped in tradition for decades.

In 2012, Sammy partnered with Dave McCullough, the former production manager of JABO, Inc. Their collaboration resulted in the creation of “Sammy’s Mountain Marbles,” a line of marbles that quickly became iconic within the community. Over 14 months, from July 2012 to September 2013, Sammy and Dave produced a lot of nice limited runs of 5/8″ +/- marbles. The marbles from this period are highly prized by collectors, not only for their aesthetic appeal but also for the story they represent—a story of friendship, collaboration, and artistic exploration.

The marbles produced during this time included a variety of special editions. These marbles became a symbol of the artistic heights that could be achieved when tradition met innovation.

As the story of “Sammy’s Mountain Marbles” continues to evolve, Sammy Hogue’s contributions to the world of marbles remain significant. His work, whether through handmade or machine-made marbles, represents a bridge between tradition and innovation, and his influence will undoubtedly be felt for many years to come. Sammy’s legacy is one of creativity, perseverance, and community; a legacy that continues to inspire those who share his passion for the art of marble making.