Wednesday, January 15, 2014: Hubbardton Forge proudly celebrates 40 years of designing and handcrafting lighting in 2014, and in commemoration of the company’s history will introduce a Maker’s Mark at the Dallas International Lighting Market. The company will unveil the Maker’s Mark on a special gift at its 40th anniversary party on Friday, January 17 from 6 – 8 pm, Showroom 4921. All are welcome to the anniversary event, and a champagne toast will be offered at 7 pm.
The Hubbardton Forge Maker’s Mark will be found on select pieces beginning in 2014. Over the centuries craftsmen have affirmed their creative reputations by striking their mark on their work. The maker’s mark is a guarantee of authenticity and is the signature of the craftsmen’s work.
In 1974, two years after meeting in a sculpting class during their senior year at the University of Vermont, George Chandler and Reed Hampton founded Hubbardton Forge & Woodworking, locating it in a 19th century barn belonging to George’s great-great uncle in Hubbardton, Vermont.
The two craftsmen introduced its first product line of forged steel candlesticks, fireplace screens, and accessories in 1976. Their big break came when Country Loft catalog asked George and Reed to make a lamp for them and then ordered 1000 more pieces. In 1985, the founders hired their first employee, and by 1990, moved to a larger facility at its current location in Castleton, Vermont.
The first full color catalog was introduced in 1992, and by 1994, the company began exhibiting at the Dallas Market Center. They also began selling to Canadian customers through AFJ Distribution in this year. In the late 1990’s and early 2000’s the company introduced many iconic products, such as the Sweeping Taper Sconce, some of which remain in the product line today. Exterior fixtures, crafted of durable aluminum, were added to the line in 2002.
By 2003, Hubbardton Forge products were sold in showrooms in all 50 states. At this time, Hubbardton Forge hired their first product designer- until now, founder George Chandler was the only designer.
In 2010, the company’s founders transitioned out of the business and Hubbardton Forge continued their success under the guidance of Lineage Capital. By 2012, the company had hired a sales representative force to cover the continental United States. In 2013, Hubbardton Forge officially introduced its Lifetime Limited Warranty on all products, validating what Hubbardton Forge has always stood for: the highest quality in hand-made craftsmanship.
Today, in its fortieth year, Hubbardton Forge continues its commitment to industry leading design, quality and customer service under new ownership, Bunker Hill Capital, who acquired the company in late 2013. Hubbardton Forge employs over 200 employees all under one roof in Castleton, Vermont and has been honored with numerous environmental and design awards throughout the years.
