Theodore Corson Wheaton traveled down many different life paths before settling own his innovative entrepreneurship in Millville. He grew up in Cape May County and dreamed of a life on the sea. He left home at the age of 19 in 1871 to work on schooner. After three days of sea sickness and ill treatment from the other crew members, Wheaton vowed to a future on land. After returning home he worked as a farmhand, railroad worker, and apprentice to a local pharmacist and physician. By 1872, Wheaton had saved $1,000 and enrolled at the Philadelphia College of Pharmacy and Science. He graduated in 1879 from University of Pennsylvania Medical School with an M.D. He then returned home, married, and set up practice as a country doctor.

In 1882, Wheaton moved his family to Millville. He opened a pharmacy and general store, while continuing to practice medicine. Millville, at that time, was home to many glass and textile factory workers. In this environment, Wheaton became interested in the manufacture of pharmacists' and physicians' glassware.

In 1888, he financed a small factory with a six-pot furnance. When the owners of the factory ran into financial troubles, Wheaton was left as the sole owner. He renamed the business TC Wheaton and Company and advertised specialization in making pharmaceutical bottles and glass tubing. Intrigued by this new opportunity, Wheaton abandoned his previous career pursuits and dedicated his full time to the new company.

In 1892 he bought more land surrounding the factory. Part of the land was made into a residential sector for employees. By 1898, the company was operating three 12-pot furnances. The company prospered so much, that in 1926 it was able to buy out one of its competitors, Millville Bottle Works. Wheaton remained at the head of his company until his death in 1931.

At this time, Frank Hayes Wheaton was elected president and chairman of the board of directors. His son, Frank Jr., also entered the business. The strength of the company was put to the test when it managed to stay profitable against competiton that had already automated. However, by 1938, automatic glassmaking machinery was added to the factories.

During WWII, Wheaton Glass manufactured the first plasma bottles. Frank Jr. also developed a subsidiary that manufactured perfume and cosmetic containers, glass tubing, and ampoules. In 1958, the company added Wheaton Plastics Company and is estimated to have produced 35% of all the plastic bottles used by American pharmaceutical companies at its peak.

The Wheaton glass company remained in the family for four generations. It was sold by the family in 1996. Frank Jr. developed Wheaton Village from the industry and town his grandfather helped create. In the center of the village, which is now well known for its craftsmanship in glassmaking, sits a replica of the glass works established by Theodore in 1888.